FIFA forces Haiti into last-minute World Cup kit change over political image | OneFootball

Haiti have been ordered by FIFA to change their World Cup shirts, four days before their opener, after an illustration was deemed political. It is their first World Cup appearance since 1974.

According to L'Équipe, the home and away designs included an image of the Battle of Vertières, the decisive moment in Haiti’s independence war. FIFA judged it a political message under equipment rules that bar political, religious or personal slogans, inscriptions or images.

The manufacturer, Saeta, implemented the required alterations to ensure the team are fully prepared. The design had been framed as a celebration of Haitian pride, resilience and spirit, and as a tribute to those building the country, rather than a political stance.

The final shirts will be identical to the originals, but without the illustration.

Haiti open against Scotland on 13 June in Boston, then face Brazil on 19 June in Philadelphia, before playing Morocco on 24 June in Atlanta.

Source: L'Équipe