The World Baseball Classic 2026 will be held across multiple international host cities, continuing the tournament’s global format and emphasizing baseball’s worldwide reach. Rather than being staged in one country, the event spans Asia, North America, and the Caribbean, bringing elite international baseball to several iconic venues.
Official Host Locations for the World Baseball Classic 2026
The 2026 World Baseball Classic will take place in the following cities and stadiums:
- Tokyo, Japan
Games will be played at the legendary Tokyo Dome, a traditional WBC hub and a centerpiece for Asian baseball fans. - Miami, United States
Miami’s loanDepot park will once again host key matchups, including later-round games. Miami has become the unofficial capital of the WBC due to its strong Latin American baseball culture. - Houston, United States
Minute Maid Park returns as a major U.S. venue, hosting pool play and knockout-stage games. - San Juan, Puerto Rico
Games will be held at Hiram Bithorn Stadium, marking Puerto Rico’s continued importance in international baseball.
How the World Baseball Classic Uses Multiple Locations
The tournament is structured so that:
- Early-round pool play is split across all host cities
- Quarterfinals and semifinals are concentrated in select venues
- The championship round is expected to take place in Miami, following the successful 2023 format
This setup reduces travel strain for teams while allowing fans around the world to attend games locally.
Why These Cities Were Chosen
The World Baseball Classic locations are selected based on:
- Strong baseball traditions and fan support
- Stadiums meeting international competition standards
- Geographic balance to support global participation
- Proven success hosting past WBC tournaments
Tokyo, Miami, Houston, and San Juan have all demonstrated the ability to deliver high-energy crowds and world-class tournament experiences.
When Is the World Baseball Classic 2026?
The World Baseball Classic 2026 is scheduled for March 2026, aligning with previous editions and fitting into the MLB preseason calendar.
Quick FAQ: World Baseball Classic 2026 Locations
Is the World Baseball Classic hosted in one country?
No. The WBC is intentionally hosted in multiple countries to reflect the global nature of baseball.
Will more cities be added?
As of now, these four locations are confirmed. Any changes would be announced by tournament organizers.
Where is the final expected to be played?
Miami is widely expected to host the championship game, as it did in 2023.