Haiti has been compelled to modify its World Cup 2026 jersey design just days before its opening match after FIFA objected to imagery depicting a battle scene on the kit.
The governing body raised concerns over artwork referencing the Battle of Vertières, a key event in Haiti’s independence struggle.
Kit manufacturer Saeta said it worked closely with FIFA throughout the approval process and made all requested changes to ensure the design met regulations.
According to Saeta, the jersey was created in partnership with the Haitian Football Federation to reflect the pride, resilience, and spirit of the Haitian people. The company emphasized that the design was intended to honor those contributing to Haiti’s future and was not meant to convey any political message.
FIFA later determined that some design elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment rules and requested alterations. Although Saeta disagreed with that interpretation, it complied with FIFA’s requirements and expressed pride in contributing to a historic moment for Haitian football.
The jerseys are available in blue, white, and red, featuring red collars and sleeves, with the national team badge positioned at the center.
The disputed artwork appeared on the right hip of the shirt and included silhouettes inspired by the Battle of Vertières and the Haitian Revolution.
In 1803, revolutionary leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who later became Haiti’s first emperor, removed the white section of the French flag to create a new flag for what became the world’s first free Black republic. The event is commemorated annually on May 18 as Haitian Flag Day.