PR to host 1st Round of 2026 World Baseball Classic in San Juan

The government estimated a direct economic impact of $29 million from hosting first-round play during next year’s World Baseball Classic. (Facebook via Jenniffer González Colón)

By THE STAR STAFF

Gov. Jenniffer González Colón announced Wednesday that Puerto Rico will be one of four host cities for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with the first round to be held March 6-11 at Hiram Bithorn Stadium in Hato Rey.

The other host cities are Houston, Miami and Tokyo. The teams from Canada, Cuba, Panama and Colombia will compete on the island.

The government estimated a direct economic impact of $29 million. The projection includes $10.4 million in lodging, $17.2 million in entertainment, food and beverages, and at least $1.5 million in services.

“This event isn’t just about baseball; it’s an international showcase for Puerto Rico, with millions of viewers tuning in during prime time and an estimated advertising value of $67 million,” said González Colón, who emphasized that the government will contribute $5 million in sponsorship and will coordinate with the municipality of San Juan on the management of the sports facilities.

Puerto Rico Tourism Company Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel said the tournament will serve as a platform to showcase the island’s history, culture and cuisine. She added that, in coordination with the departments of Housing and Recreation & Sports, sports clinics for young people will be held in community centers and public housing projects.

Economic Development and Commerce Secretary Sebastián Negrón Reichard added that the media exposure will be used to arrange meetings with visiting businesspeople.

“This is a business and investment opportunity,” he said. “We will use the World Baseball Classic as a platform to promote Puerto Rico as an investment destination and to boost sectors such as rum production and manufacturing.”

San Juan Deputy Mayor Israel Alicea noted that the municipality invested nearly $50 million in the renovation of the Hiram Bithorn Stadium.

“San Juan is prepared with a concrete project, with plans, designs, and improvements to the stadium to secure this venue,” he said. “Our city is ready to host a world-class event.”

Puerto Rico Baseball Federation Vice President Anaymir “Tuti” Muñoz said Cuba will participate in the first round in San Juan and that no visa problems for its players are anticipated.

“They don’t foresee any visa problems for Cuba, specifically,” the official said. “If there were any other news, we would announce it early, but they see it positively and have no doubt that visas for Cuba will be granted, so we have them as participants.”