PORT-AU-PRINCE – Haitian football has received a significant lift as the government announced a 100 million gourdes (US$764,000) grant to the Haitian Football Federation (FHF), aimed at bolstering the preparation and participation of national teams in upcoming international competitions.
The timely support was officially presented on Monday at a ceremony held at the Prime Minister’s Office, underscoring the state’s commitment to advancing sport as a vehicle for unity and pride.
Leaders rally behind the grenadiers
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, joined by Minister of Youth and Sports Niola Lynn Sarah Octavius, and Minister of Economy and Finance Alfred Fils Métellus, used the occasion to highlight the symbolic power of the nation’s teams. Also present were under-17 men’s coach Eddy César and other senior officials.
The prime minister praised the achievements of the U-17 squad, who recently booked their spot at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar 2025.
“You will bring to Qatar the dream of a people who believe in you,” he declared. “The flag you will fly is not just a symbol. It is the soul of Haiti. Every step on the field will be a step for the dignity, unity, and greatness of our nation.”
Sport as a national duty
Fils-Aimé stressed that supporting youth and sport is a “sacred duty” of the Haitian state, pledging that the Grenadiers would have the unwavering backing of the population.
Minister Octavius reinforced this commitment, describing sport as “a true lever of unity, discipline, and national pride.”
FHF member Gally Amazan hailed the government’s financial intervention as “historic,” noting that it reflects the seriousness of a newly signed three-year partnership between the federation and the state. He described the gesture as “tangible proof of its commitment to the development of football and youth.”
Fueling multiple campaigns
The funding will partially cover budgets for a busy international calendar:
- The U-17 men’s national team, heading to the final phase of the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar.
- The senior men’s side, preparing for the decisive stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
- The senior women’s team, currently competing in the preliminary round of the Concacaf W Championship.
By reinforcing its national teams, Haiti is not only investing in football but also projecting its identity and ambition on the global stage.
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