Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Haiti have been forced to change their kit design just four days before their World Cup opener against Scotland after their shirt, depicting a battle scene, failed to comply with FIFA rules.
An image of the Battle of Vertiers in 1803, which secured Haiti’s independence, was embedded in the country’s flag on the shirts worn in both of their pre-tournament friendlies.
However, equipment regulations set by the World Organization forbid the use of any “political, religious or personal messages or slogans” on the kit.
In a statement, Colombian maker Saeta said its original design was “a tribute to the men and women who contribute every day to the future of Haiti” and was “not intended as a political statement”.
It added: “FIFA determined that certain visible elements could be interpreted differently under its equipment regulations and ultimately requested changes to the design.
“Although this interpretation was different from our intentions, Saeta respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA.”
Haiti open their first World Cup campaign in 52 years against Scotland at Boston Stadium, Foxborough at 02:00 BST on Sunday.
The Caribbean nation then face five-time winners Brazil and Morocco in Group C.
In their only previous World Cup in 1974, Haiti lost three group games and conceded 14 goals.
