diff --git a/lib/matplotlib/__init__.py b/lib/matplotlib/__init__.py
index 2182c7c2c2d4..a7bdc9d28347 100644
--- a/lib/matplotlib/__init__.py
+++ b/lib/matplotlib/__init__.py
@@ -1358,7 +1358,7 @@ def _val_or_rc(val, *rc_names):
 def _init_tests():
     # The version of FreeType to install locally for running the tests. This must match
     # the value in `subprojects/freetype2.wrap`.
-    LOCAL_FREETYPE_VERSION = '2.14.1'
+    LOCAL_FREETYPE_VERSION = '2.14.3'
 
     from matplotlib import ft2font
     if (ft2font.__freetype_version__ != LOCAL_FREETYPE_VERSION or