FIFA forces Haiti to redesign World Cup 2026 jersey over political imagery

FIFA ordered the Haitian national football team to alter its World Cup 2026 jersey only days before the tournament opener. The original kit, produced by Colombian apparel maker Saiva in partnership with the Haitian Football Federation, displayed illustrations of the Battle of Vertières (1803) and other historic symbols celebrating Haiti’s struggle for independence. FIFA deemed the visual elements potentially political, violating its regulations that prohibit political, religious or personal messages on match‑day equipment.

Saiva said the design was meant solely as a cultural tribute, not a political statement, and pledged to make the required changes. Haiti’s debut at the 2026 World Cup – their first appearance in more than five decades – is scheduled against Scotland, with Brazil and Morocco also in Group C. The controversy mirrors a previous incident where Haiti’s Winter Olympic uniform was revised after the International Olympic Committee raised similar concerns.

The revised kit will be used for the tournament, while the debate highlights ongoing tension between national expression and international sporting regulations.