Chapter 1
The viral Houston runway
Chapter 2
The legend of Les Léopards
Chapter 3
La Sape and the art of elegance
Chapter 4
Football meets high fashion
YOUR GOAL
Master of The story of Congo's suits
Ch 2 · The legend of Les Léopards
torito The legend of Les Léopards
Leopard print on display, Sapeur culture lights the way! '74's legacy, today!
torito Discover the style and sport of Congo's legendary 1974 World Cup debut. Explore our visual infographic on iconic retro football fashion.
torito In 1974, the nation competed in the World Cup as Zaire, making history for sub-Saharan Africa.
BETA
torito Match fabrics and patterns to discover the cultural stories behind DR Congo's World Cup outfits.
Fun Fact
First of many: In 1974, DR Congo (then Zaire) became the very first sub-Saharan African nation to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.
Glossary
leopard (noun)
A large solitary wild cat with a tawny coat and black spots arranged in rosettes. In 2026, the Congolese national team wore suits featuring this animal's print for their World Cup return.
A large solitary wild cat with a tawny coat and black spots arranged in rosettes. In 2026, the Congolese national team wore suits featuring this animal's print for their World Cup return.
Quiz
What is the official nickname of the Democratic Republic of the Congo's national football team?
Quiz
Which former Congolese president was famous for wearing a signature leopard-skin hat?
Quiz
In which European country was the 1974 FIFA World Cup hosted, where Zaire made their debut?
Quiz
Approximately how many people live in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, making football a massive unifying force?
Quiz
How many stars are featured on the official FECOFA crest of the DR Congo national team?
Quiz
Under what name did the Democratic Republic of the Congo compete in the 1974 FIFA World Cup?
Quiz
The 1974 Zaire squad made history as the first team from which region to qualify for a World Cup?