WBC for HOU
Houston one of 4 cities worldwide to host 2026 World Baseball Classic
Baseball fans from around the world will visit Minute Maid Park in 2026.
The Olympics of baseball is coming to Houston for the first time ever! The city will be one of the hosts of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.
The World Baseball Classic is the most prestigious event in international baseball, the equivalent to the FIFA World Cup or the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup. The last time the tournament was held in 2023, 20 teams competed including newcomers the Czech Republic, Great Britain, and Nicaragua. Japan captured the title from the United States, who won their first championship in 2017.
“We are thrilled for Houston to have been chosen to host the World Baseball Classic,” said J. Kent Friedman, HCHSA Chairman of the Board. “When coupled with the FIFA World Cup, 2026 will demonstrate once again why Houston is one of the great sports cities not just in the U.S., but in the world. The thousands of fans that will be here for the WBC to cheer on their favorite country will have an incredible economic impact on the area and the Harris County — Houston Sports Authority is very pleased to welcome all of them to Minute Maid Park.”
The dates have not been released yet, but Houston will host the quarterfinals along with Miami, Florida. The final will happen in Miami. Tokyo, Japan and San Juan, Puerto Rico will also host games.
New Mayor John Whitmire was especially pleased to have Minute Maid Park chosen to hold the games.
“I am excited about Houston hosting the World Baseball Classic,” he said. “Having the teams and visitors in town will not just showcase Houston’s passion for the sport but also celebrate the diverse cultures from around the globe that unite under one love for the game. As the nation’s most diverse city, home to a truly global community, we are eager to demonstrate the unique experience Houston offers our domestic and international visitors. I appreciate all the people and organizations that came together to secure this event for Houston.”
The event is expected to bring thousands of baseball fans from around the world to Houston, as will the 2026 World Cup, which will host seven matches in the city.
The World Baseball Classic began in 2006 as the sport's only international tournament. It has been a fan favorite, as people get the chance to root for their country in an Olympics-style environment. Japan won the first tournament, defeating Cuba.
