3 Shocking Reasons Barcelona's €50M Congo Deal Is Making Controversy in Africa and Europe

Barcelona’s €50M partnership with DR Congo sparks global attention, raising questions, pride, and controversy over its purpose and timing.

Barcelona players will have “DR Congo – Heart of Africa” emblazoned across the backs of their training shirts from the start of next season, as part of a groundbreaking four-year deal between the Spanish football giants and the government of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Valued at €50 million ($44m; £38m), the agreement is one of the most unexpected—and controversial—football partnerships in recent memory.

The deal includes branding rights, youth training camps, and a major cultural showcase at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium.

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The DRC government says it's a strategic move to promote tourism and reshape the country’s global image, while Barcelona will also host multi-sport camps across Congo for children.

But the announcement has left many stunned—by the scale, the timing, and the political implications of the agreement.

3. The €50M Price Tag During a National Emergency

The deal’s reported cost has triggered backlash in DR Congo, where millions face poverty, displacement, and limited access to public services. With eastern parts of the country still under threat from armed rebel groups, many citizens are questioning the government’s priorities.

Kinshasa resident Muzinga Lemfu told the BBC, “Rather than investing that money abroad, they should invest it to build the country first.” The domestic football league, plagued by underfunding for years, is a clear example of where the funds could have made a more direct impact.

2. Accusations of Sportswashing and Distraction

The deal has sparked concerns about “sportswashing”—using glitzy international partnerships to cover up deeper issues at home. Critics argue that the government is using Barcelona’s global stage to shift attention away from human rights challenges, political unrest, and a fragile economy.

Sports Minister Didier Budimbu defended the partnership, calling it a “repositioning” strategy for DR Congo. He highlighted the youth camps and cultural events as opportunities to uplift Congolese talent and pride.

1. Tensions With Rwanda Add Another Layer of Controversy

This is not DR Congo’s first tourism sponsorship—similar deals have been made with AC Milan and AS Monaco—but it arrives amid heightened diplomatic tension with Rwanda.

Rwanda’s own tourism deal with Arsenal has drawn criticism, especially as it faces allegations of supporting rebels in eastern Congo, which it denies.

In February, DR Congo’s foreign minister openly criticized Rwanda’s sports branding efforts in letters to European clubs, calling them unethical. Now, with its own high-profile sponsorship in place, the Congolese government finds itself facing similar accusations from its own people.