Haiti have been compelled to alter their kit design just days before their opening World Cup match against Scotland, after FIFA deemed a historical war image on the shirt non-compliant with its regulations.
According to the information provided, the jersey used by Haiti in two pre-World Cup friendly matches featured an illustration of the 1803 Battle of Vertières, a decisive conflict in which Haiti defeated French colonial forces, leading to independence. The design also included the national flag of Haiti.
However, FIFA’s equipment regulations prohibit the use of political, religious, or personal messages, slogans, or imagery on playing kits and other sporting equipment. On this basis, Haiti were required to modify the design of their jersey.
A statement issued by the Colombian sportswear manufacturer Saeta said that the original design was intended as a tribute to men and women contributing daily to the development of Haiti’s future. The company stated that the design was not intended to convey any political message.
The statement further noted that FIFA considered certain visual elements of the design could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations. As a result, the governing body requested that changes be made to the kit.
Saeta added that while FIFA’s interpretation did not fully align with its original intention, the company respected the process and implemented the required modifications in accordance with FIFA’s final instructions.
Haiti are returning to the World Cup after a 52-year absence. Their campaign begins on 14 June at Foxborough Stadium in Boston, Massachusetts, against Scotland. They are placed in Group C, alongside five-time world champions Brazil and Morocco.
Haiti’s previous and only World Cup appearance came in 1974, when they lost all three of their group-stage matches. During that tournament, they conceded a total of 14 goals across those games.
Key Details
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Team | Haiti national football team |
| Issue | Forced kit redesign following FIFA ruling |
| Removed Design Element | Illustration of the 1803 Battle of Vertières |
| Reason | FIFA prohibition on political imagery under equipment regulations |
| Manufacturer | Saeta (Colombia) |
| Opening Match | Haiti vs Scotland |
| Venue | Foxborough Stadium, Boston, Massachusetts |
| Group | Group C |
| Other Opponents | Brazil, Morocco |
| Last Appearance | 1974 FIFA World Cup |
This marks Haiti’s return to the World Cup stage after more than five decades, with their last participation dating back to the 1974 tournament.