In a move to strengthen ties between football, development, and economic growth in Africa, two major European football clubs — AC Milan from Italy and AS Monaco from France — have entered into partnership agreements with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
On June 23, 2025, AC Milan announced its partnership with the DRC Ministry of Tourism, in line with the Italian government’s Mattei Plan for Africa, which aims to promote the DRC’s image internationally.
The initiative will involve promoting the country’s tourism, culture, and supporting education and sports projects through Fondazione Milan.
As part of the plan, a new football academy will be opened in the DRC, focusing on nurturing young talent from the Central and Sub-Saharan Africa regions, where AC Milan enjoys a strong fan base.
On June 24, 2025, AS Monaco also announced a four-year partnership under the “R.D. Congo, Heart of Africa” program, supported by the DRC Ministry of Sports and Recreation.
This collaboration will focus on developing young football talent, improving coaching and football management in the country, and promoting a positive image of the DRC through social media and branded team apparel.
DRC’s Minister of Sports, Didier Budimbu, said this collaboration is “not just a typical agreement, but a new vision aimed at transforming Congo’s sports and economy through partnerships with top global sports institutions.”
