AGP Executive Report

Haiti in the World Cup spotlight: Scotland boss Steve Clarke says fans shouldn’t underestimate Haiti after the Caribbean side’s 4-0 win over New Zealand, calling them big, strong, physical—and also technical. Travel reality check for fans: Reports say some Scotland supporters had U.S. ESTA permits revoked ahead of the tournament, putting already-booked trips at risk. Visa and media access tensions: AIPS says Iranian and some African journalists were denied entry visas despite credentials, while a U.S. judge struck down Trump-era immigration freezes affecting asylum and work/green card decisions for nationals of 39 countries. Air travel for Haitians: Sunrise Airways opened reservations for a new daily Cap-Haïtien–Santo Domingo route. World Cup matchday travel planning: Philadelphia’s host guide highlights Haiti vs Brazil on June 19 at Lincoln Financial Field, plus a big Fan Festival.

Air Travel & Routes: Sunrise Airways opened reservations for a new daily Cap-Haïtien–Santo Domingo service, with departures at 5:30 p.m. from Cap-Haïtien and 7:45 a.m. from Santo Domingo—good news for travelers eyeing easier regional hops. Humanitarian Reality Check: Haiti’s displacement crisis is worsening, with IOM reporting nearly 1.5 million people displaced, including a surge after renewed violence in Cité Soleil. Security & Travel Safety: Haitian National Police urged people to avoid combat zones and be extremely cautious, warning safety can’t be guaranteed where operations are underway. Tourism & Caribbean Spotlight: Haiti’s tourism leadership was highlighted during Caribbean Week in New York, with the Minister of Tourism using the platform to showcase Haiti’s heritage, nature, and investment potential. World Cup Travel Context (for Haitians heading abroad): A U.S. judge struck down Trump-era immigration pauses affecting people from 39 countries—an important reminder that entry rules can shift fast around major events.

Haiti at the World Cup: Scotland coach Steve Clarke says Haiti’s 4-0 win over New Zealand shows they’re big, physical, technical—and not an easy opener, setting the tone for Group C. Injury Watch (Brazil vs Haiti/Scotland): Brazil coach Ancelotti says Neymar will get an MRI Monday as he recovers from a grade 2 calf strain; Brazil’s opener is June 13, with Haiti and Scotland next. Travel & Entry Rules: A U.S. federal judge struck down Trump-era USCIS policies that paused asylum, work permits, green cards, and citizenship decisions for people from 39 countries—important for Haitian travelers and families planning moves around the tournament. Fan Safety & Costs: A U.S. immigration adviser warns Tartan Army fans could face instant deportation if arrested for public order issues, while John McGinn blasts high ticket and transport prices for Scotland matches in Massachusetts. Tourism & Community: Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced free World Cup community watch parties across neighborhoods, plus FIFA fan events—good news for visitors looking for Haiti-friendly culture and matchday plans. Haiti on the ground: Haitian National Police urges people to avoid combat zones as major operations continue against gangs and terrorist networks.

Immigration & Travel: A federal judge struck down U.S. policies that left applicants from 39 countries in “legal limbo,” a win for immigrant groups that could affect how Haitian travelers and families navigate paperwork and timelines. World Cup Safety & Tourism: Massachusetts public safety teams are moving into operations mode for World Cup matches, with daily coordination calls and planning meant to keep fans and visitors safe. Haitian Migration at Sea: U.S. Coast Guard and partners intercepted an overcrowded boat carrying 240 Haitian migrants near the Turks and Caicos; the vessel was taking on water and people were transferred for processing. Haiti on the World Stage: Haiti’s World Cup journey is getting more attention as players and fans gear up for the tournament, including coverage of Haitian squad momentum and the wider travel buzz around matches. Fan Travel Costs: Scotland’s John McGinn criticized high ticket and transport prices for World Cup travel—an issue that will hit many Caribbean and diaspora visitors planning trips. Culture & Identity: An AP report highlights how Vodún/Voodoo in Benin became tied to democracy after 1991, a reminder of the deep roots behind Haiti’s own Vodou heritage.

New Direct Air Link: Haiti’s tourism push gets a boost as Sunrise Airways launches a new nonstop route between Newark and Cap-Haïtien, with the Ministry of Tourism calling it a key bridge for the diaspora and a lift for hotels, restaurants, transport, and local small businesses. World Cup Travel & Safety: Ahead of the tournament, immigrant and refugee groups warn international visitors about heightened immigration scrutiny and possible entry denials or detentions, urging fans to understand their rights before traveling. Haiti on the Pitch: Haiti’s World Cup journey is already making headlines in the U.S., including a spotlight on Switchbacks defender Markhus “Duke” Lacroix, who says Haitian support has been overwhelming as the Grenadiers prepare for their return after decades. Haiti in Media: A Miami-born director’s film shot in Haiti, “The Tropic Sun and His Eyes,” premieres at Tribeca, highlighting Cap-Haïtien and rural life through a family-healing story. Health Alert for Travelers: Texas reports New World screwworm detection—an issue tied to regions including Haiti—reminding travelers to watch for suspicious wounds and seek care fast. World Cup Kit Buzz: World Cup kit talk is trending, with Curacao’s away strip singled out as a standout for Caribbean fans.

New Air Route for Tourism: Haiti’s tourism push gets a boost with the June 1 inauguration of the new direct Newark (CAP-EWR) and June 2 return link to Cap-Haïtien, operated by Sunrise Airways—aimed at bringing more visitors to the North and feeding the tourism value chain from hotels to local crafts. World Cup Travel Watch: FIFA’s latest stadium rules are frustrating fans: reusable water bottles are no longer allowed at World Cup venues, forcing Scotland supporters to buy bottled water inside. Haiti in the World Cup Spotlight: Haiti’s men’s team is being framed as a major international showcase, with the Tourism Ministry mobilizing the Haitian diaspora ahead of the tournament. Migration Safety Alert: U.S. CBP says it stopped an overcrowded vessel carrying 240 Haitian migrants before they reached U.S. soil, after the boat was found taking on water—Turks and Caicos handled rescue and custody. Fan Planning for Matches: Boston-area watch parties include Haiti vs. Scotland on June 13 at The Lawn on D, plus more Haiti-related viewing events in the region.

Haiti World Cup Momentum: Haiti’s preparations got a huge boost as the U.S. granted a visa to midfielder Woodensky Pierre, the only Haiti-based player still stuck at home, letting him fly to Florida and join the squad—an emotional win for fans watching Haiti’s second-ever World Cup run. On-Field Confidence: After Haiti’s 4-0 friendly win over New Zealand, striker Wilson Isidor told Scotland they’re not “here to give presents,” promising Haiti will aim to cause problems in Group C. Tourism & Diaspora: Haiti’s Minister of Tourism rallied the diaspora in New York to turn the World Cup into a tourism diplomacy push, urging the world to see Haiti’s resilience and hospitality. Travel Access: Sunrise Airways launched a new direct route between Cap-Haïtien and Newark, expanding options for northern Haiti travelers and the New Jersey–New York Haitian community. Leisure Spotlight: Haiti’s coastline is more than “a few big islands”—it includes 100+ small islands and cays, a reminder of the eco-diversity that could power sustainable tourism.

New Air Link for Northern Haiti: Sunrise Airways launched a direct Cap-Haïtien–Newark route, a big boost for travel between northern Haiti and the New York–New Jersey Haitian diaspora. World Cup Travel Relief for Haiti: The U.S. granted a visa to Haiti midfielder Woodensky Pierre, letting him join the squad in Florida after a delay tied to U.S. travel restrictions—an emotional moment for fans. Haiti’s World Cup Momentum: Haiti beat New Zealand 4-0 in a warm-up in Fort Lauderdale, with Wilson Isidor warning Scotland they’re not there to “make up the numbers.” Haiti Security & Community Updates: Haiti’s National Police graduated 1,200 recruits as gang violence continues to threaten operations, with the graduation coming hours before officers were killed. Tourism & Matchday Culture in the U.S.: Miami is going all-in with World Cup watch parties and fan festivals, while Adega Gaucha is hosting Brazil match viewing events in Orlando and Kissimmee. Charity with Haiti Connections: Rayjon Share Care marked its 40th year of solidarity with Haiti and the Dominican Republic, inviting the public to a free June 18 celebration.

Haiti World Cup visa breakthrough: The U.S. has granted a visa to Woodensky Pierre, the only Haiti national team player based in the Caribbean, clearing his path to travel to Florida and join World Cup preparations after months of uncertainty. World Cup travel & match planning: Haiti’s group schedule is set—opening June 13 in Foxborough vs Scotland, then June 19 vs Brazil in Philadelphia, and June 24 vs Morocco in Atlanta—while host cities roll out fan festivals and logistics. Caribbean connectivity for travelers: Air France is operating an unusual Miami–Guadeloupe Airbus A320 route as part of an island-hopping network, with Haiti service still affected by security and aviation restrictions. Fan culture in the region: Miami and metro Atlanta are leaning hard into World Cup programming, from public watch parties and community soccer events to big-city festival calendars that could boost travel interest across the Caribbean.

Visa Update for Haiti’s World Cup: The U.S. has granted a visa to Woodensky Pierre, Haiti’s only player based in the Caribbean, clearing his path to travel to Florida and join the squad for the 2026 World Cup. Travel & Safety Watch: A new U.S. travel advisory roundup keeps Haiti at the highest “do not travel” level, with cruise lines still canceling port stops. Haiti in the Spotlight (Sports Tourism): Haiti’s Group C opener is set for June 13 in Foxborough vs Scotland, with warm-ups against New Zealand and Peru—timing that’s already driving fan travel plans across the region. Caribbean Tourism Push: Caribbean Week in New York 2026 is underway, bringing Haiti and other islands together to talk connectivity and boosting visitor demand. World Cup Culture & Scams: With squads finalized and hype rising, warnings circulate about World Cup scams, including fake streaming sites and phantom tickets.

Haiti World Cup build-up: Haiti’s final friendlies in South Florida are set to shape Sébastien Migné’s last tactical checks ahead of the June 13 opener—first vs New Zealand in Fort Lauderdale, then vs Peru in Miami. World Cup squad milestone: Haiti has officially unveiled its 26-player roster for the tournament, with Johnny Placide, Frantzdy Pierrot and Wilson Isidor among the key names. Travel & visas pressure: A U.S. Deputy Secretary of State visit to Haiti and the Dominican Republic focused on regional security and expanding commercial ties, as travel and stability concerns remain top-of-mind for visitors and teams. Diaspora travel buzz: A Jamaican promotion winner will travel to Atlanta to watch Morocco vs Haiti, showing how the match is pulling fans across the Caribbean. Caribbean tourism push: Caribbean Week in New York brings Haiti and other islands’ tourism leaders together to market “infinite experiences” and strengthen regional travel momentum.

Haiti World Cup push: Haiti officially unveiled its 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with coach Sébastien Migné selecting a roster anchored by Europe-based experience, including goalkeeper Johnny Placide and forwards Frantzdy Pierrot and Wilson Isidor, as Les Grenadiers prepare for their debut campaign. Pre-tournament friendlies (travel/tourism angle): Haiti’s final warm-ups are set in South Florida—vs New Zealand in Fort Lauderdale and vs Peru in Miami—giving fans a chance to catch the team before the June 13 kickoff. Haitian fans in Miami: Haitian community supporters packed an art museum in North Miami to cheer on players ahead of the friendlies, calling the World Cup return a “new Haiti” moment. Regional diplomacy: The U.S. Deputy Secretary of State visited Haiti and the Dominican Republic, meeting Haitian officials and security partners as Washington focuses on regional stability and commercial ties. Caribbean tourism spotlight: Caribbean Week in New York opens with strong ministerial turnout, including Haiti, as leaders pitch “One Caribbean” experiences to global partners. World Cup logistics: FIFA confirmed base camps for all 48 teams, with Haiti listed at Stockton University in Galloway, New Jersey. Safety note for travelers: Trading Standards Scotland warned fans about World Cup scams like fake tickets and dodgy merchandise—use official sellers.

Caribbean Tourism Push: Haiti is among the tourism ministers and commissioners set to gather in New York for Caribbean Week, aiming to boost regional resilience and tourism under the theme “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences.” World Cup Travel Reality Check: Haiti’s World Cup journey is colliding with visa and access issues for fans and players, while official Haiti jerseys are reportedly sold out—so Haitian designers in the U.S. are stepping in to fill the gap. Haitian Pride in Miami: At a North Miami art museum, Haitian players and fans came together in a rainy, flag-waving sendoff ahead of Haiti’s upcoming friendlies—showing how soccer is keeping the diaspora connected. Air Access Boost: Haiti’s new airline, ZED Airlines, was officially inaugurated, with officials calling it a step toward stronger tourism and connectivity. Safety & Security Watch: A report also highlights ongoing gang extortion pressures in parts of Haiti, underscoring why travel planning still needs caution.

World Cup Culture & Travel: Haitian star Wyclef Jean is set to perform at FIFA’s World Cup 2026 Countdown Concert in Toronto on June 10, adding to the tournament’s big diaspora celebrations across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. Haiti in the Spotlight (Miami): In North Miami, Haitian fans gathered at an art museum to cheer Les Grenadiers ahead of upcoming friendlies, with players and supporters calling the World Cup return a “new Haiti” moment. Aviation & Tourism: Haiti’s new airline, ZED Airlines S.A., was officially inaugurated May 22, with officials pitching it as a boost for tourism, investment, and regional connectivity. Safety & Security (Haiti): The Gang Suppression Force says it will begin operations in early June, while reports also highlight ongoing extortion in Cul-de-Sac Plain. Immigration Shock (U.S.-Haiti): A Trump administration deportation of a Florida TPS holder to Haiti—despite a judge’s order—has sparked fresh outrage and legal fallout.

Aviation & Tourism: Haiti’s new airline ZED Airlines S.A. was officially inaugurated May 22, with officials pitching it as a boost for tourism, investment, and regional connectivity. Travel Connectivity: Haiti and the Dominican Republic will resume commercial passenger and cargo flights May 30 after more than two years, routing through Cabo Haitiano International Airport. World Cup Travel Reality Check: Haiti’s World Cup return is drawing global attention, but U.S. visa delays still threaten plans—defensive midfielder Woodensky Pierre (the only player based in Haiti) and nearly a dozen officials are awaiting visas amid expanded U.S. travel restrictions. Culture & Planning: The Ministry of Culture published its action plan through Sept. 30, 2026, including steps around cultural governance, staffing, and strengthening national media. Soccer on the Move: With Haiti set to face Scotland in Boston June 13, Haiti’s home-soil ban means matches are played far from fans—yet the team’s momentum and unity story is fueling travel interest.

Haiti–U.S. Travel Update for World Cup: Haiti’s only in-country squad member, defensive midfielder Woodensky Pierre (Violette AC, Port-au-Prince), is still awaiting a U.S. visa to join the team in Florida, with Haiti’s federation saying the process is underway as Trump-era travel restrictions disrupt plans. Regional Air Connectivity: Haiti and the Dominican Republic will resume commercial passenger and cargo flights on May 30 via Cabo Haitiano International Airport, aiming to restore travel links after more than two years of suspension tied to Haiti’s security crisis. Haiti in the Spotlight (Sports + Tourism): Stockton University in Philadelphia has installed a new training field and been selected as Haiti’s World Cup base camp, a boost for visiting fans and local tourism around matchweek. World Cup Watch Parties: Worcester, Massachusetts is staging free public FIFA World Cup watch parties on Worcester Common, including Haiti vs. Scotland on June 13. On-the-Ground Fan Logistics: Boston’s MBTA is rolling out multilingual wayfinding and crowd operations for World Cup travel, with match-day disruptions affecting routes to Foxborough (including the June 13 Haiti–Scotland opener). Film Shot in Haiti: Elisee Junior St. Preux’s debut feature “The Tropic Sun and His Eyes,” shot entirely in Cap-Haïtien, will premiere at the 2026 Tribeca Festival on June 5, spotlighting Haiti beyond the pitch.