There is a national team changing its kit just before the World Cup. In the final days leading up to the tournament, Haiti was forced to alter its uniforms for its second World Cup appearance, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The reason is that the original blue kit featured an illustration referencing the Battle of Vertières in 1803, the final major battle of the Haitian Revolution, fought between the Haitian army and forces commanded by Napoleon Bonaparte. According to FIFA, the tribute depicts a scene of war.
The Colombian manufacturer Saeta redesigned the kit to comply with FIFA regulations, explaining that the original design was intended as a tribute to Haiti’s struggle for independence and not as a political statement. The team had already worn the kit in two World Cup warm-up matches.
Although the decision surprised many, the change was not entirely last-minute. FIFA’s official kit graphics for the tournament already show Haiti wearing the modified uniforms. The situation recalls an incident at UEFA Euro 2020, when Ukraine was required to alter its kit following a complaint from Russia. UEFA ordered the removal of the slogan “Glory to Our Heroes,” although the controversial map of the country, including Crimea, was allowed to remain.
Haiti returns to the World Cup after 52 years for only its second appearance. In 1974, the Caribbean nation lost all three matches and was eliminated in the group stage. This year, Haiti has been drawn into Group C alongside Brazil, Scotland, and Morocco.
