North Miami (Le Floridien) – This weekend, North Miami will host a vibrant celebration of Haitian culture and community as the 25th Annual Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup reaches its grand finale. Happening on Haitian Flag Day, May 18, this event brings together soccer, music, and Haitian pride for a day full of excitement and celebration.
A Quarter-Century of Community and Competition
Since its inception in 2001, the Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup has been more than just a soccer tournament; it’s a cornerstone of the Haitian-American community in South Florida. Over the past 25 years, it has grown into a unifying event that brings together families, friends, and fans to celebrate their shared heritage and love for the game.
Patrick Fabre, President and Founder of KSE Group, Inc. (Kyafa Sports and Entertainment) —the organizing body behind this longstanding community gathering—expressed pride and gratitude as the event marks a major milestone.
“We encourage everyone to come out in full force this Sunday at FIU North Stadium —bring your Haitian flag, wear your red and blue with pride, and celebrate who we are as a people. This isn’t just a soccer final; it’s a moment to honor our heritage, our resilience, and our unity through sport and music,” he added.
The tournament has showcased local talent and fostered a sense of camaraderie among participants and spectators alike. Each match has been a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving and promoting Haitian culture through sports.
The 25th edition of the Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup, which kicked off on March 2nd, will culminate this Sunday, in a thrilling final matchup that promises high intensity and passionate support. As is tradition, the competition brought together 16 talented teams from across the Haitian diaspora. This year’s grand finale will feature a clash between two of the tournament’s top-performing teams: Soley Leve of Boston and 117 FC Miami. For 117 FC Miami, this marks their third appearance in the final in four years — having clinched the title in 2021 and finishing as runner-up in 2022. Meanwhile, Soley Leve returns to the final stage for the second consecutive year, after a runner-up finish in 2024, and will undoubtedly be hungry to claim the championship this time around.
The Grand Finale: A Cultural Extravaganza
FIU North Miami Stadium, located at 2555 NE 151st Street, will host a day filled with high-energy soccer, live performances, and a festive atmosphere, aligning with the 222nd anniversary of the Haitian flag. The occasion adds historical and cultural weight to an already vibrant day of competition and celebration. In addition to the championship match, the event will feature live performances from prominent Haitian artists and bands, with the sounds of konpa and traditional music contributing to a festive atmosphere that highlights the pride and unity of the Haitian community.
Fans can look forward to performances by top konpa bands and artists such as Klass, Kreyol La, Gabel, Vybe, Kenny Haiti, and the ever-energetic TonyMix. Traditional rhythms will also be represented by Rara Lakay, while popular DJs like DJ Paz and DJ Dervi will keep the energy high between sets. Together, they will help transform the tournament’s closing day into a festive celebration of Haitian identity, unity, and pride.
Haitian Flag Day: A Symbol of Pride and Resilience
Celebrated annually on May 18, Haitian Flag Day commemorates the creation of the nation’s flag in 1803, symbolizing the country’s struggle for independence and unity. In South Florida, home to one of the largest Haitian communities in the United States, the day is marked by various events that honor Haitian history and culture.
The grand finale of the Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup is more than just a soccer match; it’s a celebration of Haitian identity, resilience, and unity. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a newcomer eager to experience the richness of Haitian culture, this event offers an unforgettable experience.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the official Eventbrite page: 25th Annual Madame Gougousse Haiti Cup.
Come and be part of a day where sports, music, and heritage converge to celebrate the enduring spirit of the Haitian community.
–Le Floridien is proud to sponsor this year’s Madame Gougousse Cup Final, continuing its commitment to promoting events that celebrate Haitian heritage, unity, and community pride through sports and culture.
