The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off this Thursday, June 11, 2026, with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa (3:00 PM in Haiti). The match will take place at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium, making it the first stadium in history to host three World Cup opening matches. The opening ceremony is scheduled for 1:20 PM (Haiti time) with a spectacular show featuring artists such as Shakira, Burna Boy, J. Balvin, and Maná.

As a side note, FIFA demanded the removal of the historical illustration depicting the Battle of Vertières (November 18, 1803) that appeared on the lower right side of the Grenadiers' home and away jerseys. The world governing body deemed the design "too political" under IFAB Law 4, which prohibits political symbols and messages. Colombian sportswear manufacturer Saeta complied with FIFA's requirements by modifying the kits to offer a cleaner design without the illustration. It should be noted that the removed motif depicted the Vertières monument and the heroes of Haitian independence, one of whom was holding the blue and red flag.

SAETA Press Release :

“Following Haiti’s historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup, Saeta had the privilege of designing the kits for the national team’s return to the world’s biggest stage.

Working closely with the Haitian Football Federation, our goal throughout the process was to create a jersey that celebrates the pride, resilience, and spirit of the Haitian people. Several concepts were developed and refined over the months, then submitted to FIFA’s standard approval process.”

The final design presented by Saeta was conceived as a tribute to the men and women who contribute daily to Haiti's future and was in no way intended to be a political statement.

During the review process, FIFA determined that certain visual elements could be interpreted differently in light of its equipment regulations and ultimately requested modifications to the design.

Although this interpretation differed from our initial intention, Saeta respected the process and implemented the final requirements communicated by FIFA.

We remain proud to have contributed, alongside the Haitian Football Federation, to this historic moment for Haitian football and wish the team every success at the FIFA World Cup."

Original SAETA jerseys before the image was removed :

IH/ iciHaiti