Delmas Media

Let me start by saying how incredibly proud we are of the Haiti National Team for making it to the FIFA World Cup 2026, taking place right here in the USA. We can’t wait to watch — or hopefully attend — at least one of their matches. There’s nothing more exciting than witnessing a moment we already know will be historic, not just for the Haitian people, but for soccer lovers around the world.

After 51 years, Haiti is right back where it belongs: on football’s biggest stage. Haiti — the first Black Republic, independent since 1804 — has now become the first team in history to qualify for a FIFA World Cup without playing a single match at home. It’s a bittersweet achievement, a reminder of the difficult situation back home. No matter where we are in the world, Haiti stays rooted in our hearts.

Several players have expressed the frustration of not being able to return to the country they love, especially during such a monumental moment. They know how much joy it would bring the people to celebrate with them in person. Even head coach Sébastien Migné shared that he has never set foot in Haiti since taking over 18 months ago, calling it “impossible because it’s too dangerous,” and noting that flights aren’t landing.

Team captain and veteran goalkeeper Johny Placide, 37, told FIFA.com that qualifying brings immense pride to the nation and especially to the youth. But he also acknowledged that not being able to play on home soil was a major disadvantage.

Looking back through memory lane, Haiti last appeared at the World Cup in 1974, when Emmanuel Sanon famously scored against Italy — a moment forever etched in the hearts of Haitians.

Now, we look forward to seeing faces from all nations come together for what we all cherish: The Game of Football — aka Soccer.

See you soon, WORLD.

— Delmas Media & Sports News.