Just days before its long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup, Haiti was ordered to alter its official team jersey after FIFA ruled that part of the design could be interpreted as political. The controversial artwork depicted the historic Battle of Vertières, the decisive 1803 victory that helped secure Haiti’s independence and paved the way for the world’s first Black republic.

Haiti’s kit manufacturer, Saeta, insisted the design was never intended as a political statement but rather as a tribute to the resilience, pride, and spirit of the Haitian people. Ironically, the team had already worn the jersey in international friendlies, and many fans viewed it as a celebration of national history rather than politics.

Despite the controversy, Haiti enters the 2026 World Cup with immense national pride, marking its first appearance on football’s biggest stage since 1974. The original jerseys quickly sold out, turning the banned design into an unexpected symbol of idenтιтy and a collector’s item for supporters around the world.