Haiti’s 2026 World Cup jersey: “FIFA saw it as a political message” — SAETA explains and changes the design

Miami, June 10, 2026 — Just days before Haiti’s opening match at the 2026 World Cup, the Grenadiers’ official jersey has sparked controversy following changes requested by FIFA.

In a statement, kit supplier SAETA said it designed the jersey “in close collaboration with the Haitian Football Federation” to celebrate “the pride, resilience, and spirit of the Haitian people.”

According to the brand, the original design was “a tribute to Haitian history and the Haitian people” and notably included silhouettes inspired by the 1803 Battle of Vertières, a major episode in Haiti’s independence.

But “during the standard approval process, FIFA considered that certain visual elements of the initial design could be interpreted as a political message,” SAETA said.

FIFA then reportedly requested changes in accordance with its regulations prohibiting political symbols, messages, or references on official equipment.

Under Law 4 of the IFAB/FIFA Laws of the Game, as well as FIFA’s equipment regulations, players’ kits must not display any political, religious, or personal slogan, image, or message. FIFA has interpretive authority over the visual elements on equipment and may request changes if it considers that certain symbols or historical references could be perceived as political messages in the context of an international competition.

SAETA says it complied with the request and submitted a modified version, which was ultimately approved for the competition.

Haiti will play in its second World Cup in history, 52 years after its first appearance in 1974. The Grenadiers will compete in Group C with Brazil, Morocco, and Scotland.

Some internet users saw the jersey’s graphic elements as strongly patriotic and commemorative, while others felt certain references could be viewed as politically sensitive.

By issuing this clarification, SAETA appears to be seeking to refocus the debate on the tribute paid to the Haitian people and the historical significance of this qualification.

A World Cup under the banner of symbolism

Under French head coach Sébastien Migné, Haiti delivered a historic campaign in the Concacaf qualifiers, ending more than half a century away from the highest level.

Led by players such as Duckens Nazon, Frantzdy Pierrot, Ricardo Adé, Johny Placide, and the young Carl Sainté, the Haitian national team now hopes to make its mark on the world stage.

Haiti’s return to the 2026 World Cup is already one of the tournament’s major storylines. Fifty-two years after the 1974 run and the exploits of Emmanuel Sanon, a new generation of Grenadiers is preparing to carry the national colors against the biggest nations in world football.

Haiti will open its tournament on June 13 against Scotland before facing Brazil on June 19 and then Morocco on June 24.

Beyond the pitch, this World Cup already appears to be a major moment of international visibility for Haiti — even in the debates surrounding its jersey.

Editorial staff