FIFA mandates Haiti to redesign World Cup 2026 kit over political imagery

FIFA instructed the Haitian national team to modify its World Cup 2026 jersey after determining that the design, which features an illustration of the 1803 Battle of Vertières, constitutes a political message. The original kit, created by Colombian brand Saeta, was meant to celebrate Haiti’s independence and its return to the tournament after a 52‑year absence. Haiti’s debut match against Scotland is scheduled for Boston, but the team has not yet confirmed the alternative uniform.

Ahead of the 2026 tournament, classic‑shirt retailer Classic Football Shirts reported a surge in demand for vintage and new national team jerseys, noting heightened interest in kits from England, Scotland and Haiti. The company, based in Manchester with a U.S. office, expects the World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico to boost global sales of football apparel.