Haiti forced to redesign World Cup kit hours before Scotland opener after FIFA political-imagery ban

Haiti were forced into a last-minute kit redesign ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener against Scotland in Foxborough, after FIFA determined that their original strip violated equipment regulations prohibiting political messages.

The original design, produced by manufacturer Saeta, depicted the Battle of Vertieres — a pivotal conflict in Haiti’s independence from France in the early 19th century. FIFA’s equipment regulations ban political messages of any kind, and the governing body requested modifications after reviewing the design during its standard approval process.

Saeta confirmed the change in a statement, saying the kit had been intended as a tribute rather than a political statement. “The final design presented by Saeta was intended as a tribute to the men and women who contribute every day to Haiti’s future and was not intended as a political statement,” the manufacturer said. “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 added that it “respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA”, while expressing pride at contributing to “this historic moment for Haitian football”.

The tournament marks Haiti’s first World Cup appearance since 1974, ending a 52-year absence. They secured qualification by finishing top of a CONCACAF group containing Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua. With the United States, Canada and Mexico qualifying automatically as co-hosts, only three additional CONCACAF nations were able to earn direct group-stage berths; Haiti were joined by Curacao and Panama, while Jamaica and Suriname fell short in the intercontinental play-offs.

Coached by Frenchman Sebastien Migne, Haiti played two pre-tournament friendlies in Miami, beating New Zealand 4-0 before losing 2-1 to Peru. After facing Scotland, they travel to Philadelphia to meet Brazil before concluding their group stage against Morocco in Atlanta.