NewsNBC 6 South FloridaJune 24, 2026United States
South Florida fans celebrate Haiti's historic World Cup return
South Florida restaurant owner Wilton Antoine and a group of supporters traveled across the U.S. to celebrate the Haitian national soccer team's first World Cup appearance in 52 years. Despite the team's elimination, fans expressed pride and continued support for the players.
Read the full story at NBC 6 South FloridaWhy It Matters
The article highlights the cultural and emotional significance of the Haitian national soccer team's participation in the World Cup for the Haitian diaspora in South Florida.
Key Facts
- The Haitian national soccer team qualified for the World Cup for the first time in 52 years.
- Wilton Antoine and a group of 30 to 40 friends from South Florida traveled to Atlanta to support the team.
- The group met at a Pearl of the Island restaurant in Margate, Florida, before departing for Atlanta.
- Fans traveled to multiple cities including Boston, Philadelphia, and Atlanta to support the team.
- A qualification game took place in Curaçao on Nov. 18.
- Wilton Antoine has been following the team since 1994.
- Wilton Antoine plans to form a fan club to organize future travel for the 2030 World Cup.