11.06.2026 14:21
FIFA has banned certain visual elements in Haiti's World Cup kits, deeming them political in nature. Following the decision, the Haiti national team was forced to change its home and away jerseys ahead of the tournament.
Hours before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, an unexpected decision from FIFA arrived for the Haiti National Team. Some designs on the home and away jerseys prepared by Haiti, which will compete in the tournament for the second time, were deemed unsuitable by FIFA.
FIFA FOUND IT POLITICAL
According to The Athletic, FIFA did not permit the use of certain visual elements on the jerseys because they carried political content. In response, the Haiti Football Federation and the jersey manufacturer agreed to change the jerseys before the World Cup.
HISTORICAL REFERENCE SPARKED DEBATE
It was stated that Haiti's jersey design included details inspired by the Haitian Revolution, which freed the country from French colonial rule and slavery. FIFA's assessment of these elements as political in nature ignited a notable debate ahead of the tournament.
NEW JERSEYS PREPARED AT THE LAST MINUTE
Following the decision, the jersey manufacturer issued a written statement. The statement indicated that they worked in coordination with FIFA and that the required changes were implemented during the mandatory review process to bring the jerseys into compliance with the rules.
WORLD CUP AFTER 52 YEARS
The Haiti National Team will appear in the World Cup for the first time since 1974. The Caribbean representative, participating in the tournament for the second time in its history, is preparing to experience the excitement of the World Cup despite the last-minute crisis.