Italian-Haitian designer creates the Games’ only custom-painted outfits for alpine skier Richi Viano and cross-country pioneer Stevenson Savart
Milano Cortina, Italy / Port-au-Prince, Haiti – February 10, 2026 In a powerful fusion of high fashion, cultural pride, and athletic resilience, renowned Italian-Haitian designer Stella Jean has revealed the official uniforms for Team Haiti’s groundbreaking debut at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
The designs — the only hand-painted uniforms at the entire Games — are a bold visual statement of visibility and endurance for a nation that continues to face immense challenges. Crafted in Italy with meticulous attention to both aesthetics and performance, the outfits honor Haiti’s heritage while meeting the rigorous demands of elite winter competition.
Haiti is sending just two athletes to the Winter Games:
- 23-year-old alpine skier Richardson “Richi” Viano
- 25-year-old cross-country skier Stevenson Savart (Haiti’s first-ever Olympic competitor in the discipline)
Both athletes were adopted by French families as children and later chose to represent Haiti on the world stage.
“An Act of Responsibility” – Stella Jean’s Vision
Announcing the uniforms on Instagram and in media previews, Stella Jean described the project with deep intention:
“From the highest peaks of the Caribbean to the heart of the Dolomites. Haiti makes its debut at Milano Cortina 2026 with Richi Viano and Stevenson Savart. Two athletes. One nation that refuses to disappear.”
She stressed that the uniforms go far beyond fashion:
“These uniforms are not an exercise in style. They are an act of responsibility. Every detail is intentional. Every centimeter of fabric carries the duty to tell a story and the will to endure.”
The designs were developed in close collaboration with former Italian ski champion Pietro Vitalini, ensuring they meet functional standards for speed, insulation, and movement on snow and ice.
Cultural Symbols Meet Olympic Rules
The outfits draw inspiration from the visionary Haitian artist Édouard Duval-Carrié, featuring vibrant tropical motifs, lush backgrounds, and a striking riderless charging red horse — a creative adaptation after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) required the removal of an original depiction of independence leader Toussaint Louverture to comply with rules prohibiting political symbolism. Italian artisans hand-painted over the element, preserving the symbolic essence of heritage, strength, and freedom.
This marks a continuation of Stella Jean’s successful partnership with Team Haiti, following her viral designs for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.
A Milestone for Haiti on the Global Stage
Haiti’s participation in the Winter Olympics — with only two athletes — is a testament to determination and representation. Richi Viano and Stevenson Savart will carry the Haitian flag into competition, symbolizing resilience for a nation still rebuilding amid ongoing crises.
Stella Jean’s uniforms ensure they do so in pieces that are not only functional but also deeply meaningful, turning every run and stride into a statement of pride and survival.
L’Union Suite congratulates Richi Viano, Stevenson Savart, Stella Jean, and the entire Haitian delegation. Your presence on the world stage matters.
Ayiti kanpe. Always.
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