World Cup 2026: FIFA Orders Haiti To Change Kits Over Political Symbolism

World Cup 2026: FIFA Orders Haiti To Change Kits Over Political Symbolism

Sampson Adedeji 

Haiti have agreed to change both their home and away kits for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers after FIFA ruled that the designs contained political imagery, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The Caribbean nation's jerseys featured an illustration depicting several freedom fighters raising the Haitian flag, inspired by the final battle of the Haitian Revolution that led to the country's independence from French colonial rule and the abolition of slavery on the island.

According to reports, FIFA determined that the artwork violated its regulations prohibiting political, religious, or personal messages on official team equipment. 

As a result, the Haitian Football Federation has accepted the directive to redesign the kits to comply with the governing body's guidelines.

The original design had been praised by many supporters for celebrating Haiti's rich history and the bravery of the revolutionaries who fought for the nation's freedom. 

However, FIFA's stance on maintaining political neutrality in football competitions ultimately led to the decision.

Haiti are now expected to unveil new home and away kits ahead of their upcoming World Cup engagements as they continue their quest to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.