Haiti to the 2026 World Cup: Epic Qualification Amidst Crisis

Haiti: A Footballing Miracle Amidst the Crisis

Haiti’s national team has achieved one of the greatest feats in world football: direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, after a 52-year absence. This achievement was built in adverse circumstances, far from home and amidst a deep crisis affecting the Caribbean country. While Port-au-Prince suffers from the violence of armed groups, who have even occupied the Sylvio Cator Stadium, the players, without their own stadium, found in exile the strength to bring hope to their people.

A Historic Return

The selection, known as Les Grenadiers, returns to the World Cup for the second time in its history, after its debut in Germany 1974. Since 2021, they have not played a single match on Haitian soil, using Curacao as a venue due to insecurity. Despite these difficulties, they demonstrated character and resilience during the qualifiers, including an epic comeback against Costa Rica, with a 3-3 draw fueled by a hat-trick from Duckens Nazon, the team leader. This reaction marked a turning point that culminated in a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua, securing their place in the World Cup.

A Country in Crisis, A Team That Resists

The classification has a special meaning for a nation facing serious problems. Following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, gangs consolidated their control, affecting daily life.

The team’s victory will not solve the problems of Haitian society, but it is a relief. Even with hunger, one can be proud. Hunger does not prohibit joy.

Patrice Dumont, former senator and commentator

The Legacy of Emmanuel Sanon

The ranking also revives the memory of Emmanuel “Manno” Sanon, the legend of Haitian football. Sanon scored Haiti’s only two goals in the 1974 World Cup. His spirit, linked to resistance and national pride, is once again present in this new generation, which is fulfilling a dream that the idol could not see in life.

The Diaspora: A Fundamental Support

The Haitian diaspora has been key on the road to the World Cup, financially supporting the team and filling stadiums outside the country. The official jersey, made by the Colombian brand Saeta, became a symbol of identity and support. After the classification, more than a thousand orders were registered in a few hours, showing the strong connection of Haitians with their selection, even far from home.

A Triumph That Goes Beyond Sport

Without playing a single match in their country and facing adversities that go beyond sports, Haiti has achieved a gesture of collective resilience. Their qualification for the 2026 World Cup is a powerful message: even in the darkness, football can ignite hope.