FIFA reportedly denied Haiti's first jersey design for World Cup

Haiti’s original jersey design for the 2022 World Cup was rejected by FIFA after the governing body determined certain visual elements violated equipment regulations. The design included an illustration of the 1803 Bataille de Vertières and the Haitian flag, which FIFA deemed inappropriate under Law 4 of the International Football Association Board. This law prohibits political, religious, or personal slogans, statements, or images on player equipment. Saeta, Haiti’s official apparel manufacturer, released a statement on June 9 confirming the redesign. The company worked with the Haitian Football Federation to create a jersey celebrating the nation’s pride and resilience, but FIFA requested modifications during the review process. The banned design had been worn in two recent matches, though the exact elements causing the rejection were not immediately specified. A Miami Herald report suggested the illustration on the right side of the jersey was the primary issue. FIFA’s regulations also restrict undergarments from displaying political or religious imagery beyond the manufacturer’s logo. Haiti’s official TikTok account later posted a video of defender Jean-Kévin Duverne in the redesigned jersey, which removed the contested illustration. Saeta assured compliance with FIFA’s regulations, stating the modifications were successfully implemented. The team’s new jersey now adheres to FIFA’s rules, ensuring full readiness for the tournament’s biggest stage. Haiti’s World Cup journey begins on June 13, marking a historic moment for the nation’s football history.