Haiti’s national team has been required to modify its kit design just days before the start of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after FIFA objected to a historical war-themed illustration on the jersey.
The design, produced by kit manufacturer Saeta in collaboration with the Haitian Football Federation, featured imagery inspired by the Battle of Vertières — a decisive moment in Haiti’s struggle for independence.
FIFA reportedly raised concerns that the depiction of silhouettes linked to the battle could be interpreted as a political or military statement, in violation of its equipment regulations.
In response, Saeta confirmed it worked with FIFA to revise the design and comply with the governing body’s approval process, stating that the final version was adjusted according to the requested modifications.
The company explained that the original concept was intended as a tribute to Haiti’s history, resilience, and national pride, rather than a political message.
The revised jerseys, available in blue, white, and red variants, retain the national colours and crest but remove the contested imagery from the right hip area.
The removed design element had referenced the Haitian Revolution and the historic moment when revolutionary leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines helped establish Haiti as the world’s first free Black republic in 1803.
Haiti will now proceed into the tournament with the approved kits after final clearance from FIFA.