Gang-Wracked Haiti Unites to Celebrate World Cup Qualification

Fireworks and dancing erupted across Haiti in a reprieve from gang violence as people came together to celebrate their national team punching its ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

Haiti, the poorest nation in the Americas, will be making its first appearance on international football's biggest stage in more than 50 years, and only its second overall, after qualifying for the tournament on Tuesday night.

"We need a national holiday to celebrate it, with schools closed. We need pleasure and joy. Unlock the country and eradicate the gangs," an ecstatic fan in Port-au-Prince told AFP.

But even the gangs joined in on the celebrations that stretched into Wednesday in the capital and other cities such as Cap-Haitien and Miragoane. 

Jimmy "Barbecue" Cherisier, the UN-sanctioned leader of a gang coalition known as Viv Ansanm (Living Together), was seen in videos posted to social media partying with residents in his neighbourhood.

Just three days earlier, the gang boss had announced his intention to confront the police as he urged residents of Port-au-Prince to stay indoors. 

In Haiti's main city, thousands of people celebrated in the streets to the rhythm of popular songs and chants performed by rara bands, the country's festive music.

Several fans paraded shirtless, waving national flags amid applause and fireworks.

"I shouldn't be out on the street at this hour, but since it's for Haiti, I'm doing it anyway," said supporter Widenie Bruno. 

- FRANCE 24