FIFA bans World Cup team’s kit just days before their first match
A World Cup team has had to change their kit just days before their first match.
The 23rd World Cup kicks off on Thursday, June 11, with hosts Mexico playing South Africa at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. Later that day, South Korea will face Czechia in Guadalajara, and the other host, Canada, will play Bosnia and Herzegovina in Toronto on Friday, June 12.
In the early hours of Saturday, June 13, the USA, also a host, start their tournament against Paraguay in Los Angeles. That same day, Qatar will take on Switzerland, and Brazil, five-time champions, play Morocco.
Scotland will begin their World Cup journey against Haiti at 2 a.m. BST on Sunday, June 14, facing hot weather in Foxborough, Massachusetts.
But just before this game, Haiti has run into a big problem. FIFA says parts of Haiti’s kit have political images, so the team must change their jerseys. The controversy centers on a picture showing the Battle of Vertières from 1803, an important moment for Haiti’s independence.
FIFA rules say no political, religious, or personal messages can appear on team clothes.
Saeta, the South American company making Haiti’s kit, released a statement saying they worked closely with FIFA to adjust the design after a careful review. They explained that their goal was to honor the pride and strength of the Haitian people, not to make any political statements.
Saeta said, “We created many designs over several months and sent them to FIFA for approval. The final idea was meant to celebrate the people who build Haiti’s future every day. But FIFA felt some parts could be seen differently and asked for changes. Even though this wasn’t our intention, we respected FIFA’s decision and made the requested updates.”
They added they’re proud to be part of this special moment for Haitian football and wish the team all the best in the World Cup.
Haiti had worn the original shirt during warm-up games against New Zealand and Peru.
Earlier this year, a similar thing happened with Haiti’s Winter Olympic team, whose ski suits were changed because they showed a revolutionary figure, which broke Olympic rules.