Haiti mandated to alter World Cup kit after FIFA cites political imagery breach

Haiti has been required to modify the design of its FIFA World Cup 2026 kit after the sport’s governing body objected to a depiction of the 1803 Battle of Vertieres on the shirts. The illustration, which featured the national flag and commemorated the island nation’s independence, was deemed a violation of regulations that prohibit political or religious messages on official apparel.

Manufacturer Saeta confirmed the modification in a statement posted on Instagram on Wednesday. The Colombian company stated that the original design was intended as a tribute to the historical figures who secured Haiti’s independence, rather than as a political statement. However, Saeta acknowledged that FIFA determined certain visual elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations and requested the necessary changes.

The unaltered kit was worn by Haitian footballers during two recent warm-up matches in the United States. The team played against New Zealand in Florida on 2 June and faced Peru in the same state on 5 June. These friendlies took place just days before the start of the tournament, highlighting the late nature of the regulatory intervention.

Under FIFA equipment regulations, the use of any political, religious, or personal messages or slogans on the kit is strictly prohibited. Saeta noted in its statement that while its interpretation of the design intent differed from the governing body’s assessment, it respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA. The specific details of the modified kit design have not been disclosed.

This adjustment comes as Haiti prepares for its first World Cup campaign in 52 years. The team begins its tournament against Scotland in Boston on Saturday, 13 June. Subsequent group stage matches include a fixture against Brazil in Philadelphia on 19 June, followed by a match against Morocco in Atlanta five days later.