Haiti's national football team has been compelled to alter their World Cup 2026 jerseys after FIFA raised objections to certain elements of the original design that depicted a scene from the country's struggle for independence, as reported by Reuters.
Design Changes Ordered by FIFA
Colombia-based sportswear manufacturer Saeta confirmed on Wednesday that the shirts, developed in collaboration with the Haitian Football Federation, had been modified following FIFA's review process. The company emphasized that the design was intended to honor Haiti's history and celebrate the nation's pride, resilience, and national spirit, rather than make a political statement.
"During the review process, FIFA determined that certain visual elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations and ultimately requested modifications to the design," Saeta said in a statement. "While this interpretation differed from our intention, Saeta respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA."
Neither FIFA nor the Haitian Football Federation immediately commented on the matter.
World Cup Campaign Approaching
The jersey controversy comes just days before Haiti begin their World Cup campaign in Group C. The Caribbean nation will open against Scotland in Boston on Saturday, followed by a match against five-time champions Brazil later in the group stage. Haiti will then conclude their group fixtures against Morocco on June 25.
As teams finalize preparations for football's biggest event, excitement continues to build across the three host countries — Canada, Mexico, and the United States — which are jointly staging the World Cup for the first time in history.
California Celebrates Hosting
In California, Governor Gavin Newsom welcomed the Consuls General of Canada and Mexico in a symbolic celebration of the tri-nation tournament. Sharing the occasion on social media platform X, Newsom highlighted California's readiness to host matches and praised the partnership between the three countries.
"FIFA World Cup ready! It's an honor for California to celebrate with our partners in Canada and Mexico ahead of the world's biggest sporting event — marking the first time in history that three countries are hosting the World Cup," Newsom wrote.
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