FIFA has compelled Haiti to modify their 2026 World Cup shirts just days before their opening match against Scotland, ruling that certain design elements could be considered political. The Caribbean nation, making its first World Cup appearance since 1974, had already unveiled popular kits produced by manufacturer Saeta in blue, white, and red versions, which quickly sold out online.
Design Dispute
The controversy centers on artwork on the right hip area depicting silhouettes inspired by the Battle of Vertières and the Haitian Revolution. These references honor one of the most significant periods in Haiti's history, including Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who removed the white section from a French flag in 1803 to create a banner for the world's first free black republic. This moment is commemorated annually on Haitian Flag Day, May 18.
Despite the historical significance, FIFA determined that some elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations. Saeta stated they spent months collaborating with the Haitian Football Federation to create a design celebrating "the pride, resilience, and spirit of the Haitian people" and submitted multiple concepts through FIFA's standard approval process. The company emphasized the design was "not intended as a political statement."
FIFA Decision and Redesign
FIFA requested changes during the review process, and Saeta accepted the decision, making the required alterations. By Tuesday, official World Cup portrait photos showed Haiti's players wearing shirts without the disputed imagery, a noticeable change from pre-tournament friendlies against New Zealand and Peru, where the original designs were worn.
Supporters seeking the original shirts face disappointment, as all three versions are sold out on Saeta's website with no restocking planned. FIFA's online store currently offers only a scarf and a trucker hat for Haiti. The original designs are expected to become collector's items.
Previous Incident
This is not the first time a Haitian team has faced last-minute clothing changes in 2026. Earlier in the year, Haiti's Olympic athletes had to redesign ski suits for the Winter Olympics in Milan after the International Olympic Committee found artwork by designer Stella Jean violated rules on design and athlete expression, also featuring a revolutionary figure.
As Haiti prepares to face Scotland in their opening World Cup match, the focus returns to the pitch, though the shirt controversy has been a significant distraction. The team will wear shirts inspired by their national story, but not the version fans initially purchased.
