Haiti's World Cup debut highlights hope amid violence and visa hurdles

Haiti qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time since 1974, a rare achievement for a nation plagued by political instability, gang violence, humanitarian crisis and extreme poverty. The national team, dubbed “Les Grenadiers”, will open the tournament against Scotland in U.S. venues; most players are based abroad while Woodensky Pierre remains in Port‑au‑Prince, training on a pitch surrounded by armed gang control.

Pierre’s participation was delayed by a late U.S. visa, forcing him to miss the opening match and arrive only after a warm‑up game. Despite these obstacles, Haiti won its first World Cup match 4‑0 against New Zealand. The squad’s presence is viewed as a symbol of resilience, offering a glimmer of hope to a population facing acute food insecurity, displacement and daily violence, even as U.S. travel bans and visa restrictions present additional challenges.