World Baseball Classic announces pools and schedule for the 2026 WBC

The World Baseball Classic is back for its sixth installment in 2026, and the lineup of venues is just as exciting as the talent on the field. With Games set to be played in Miami, Houston, Tokyo, and San Juan, fans from across the globe will have the chance to witness baseball’s top international stars on some of the sport’s biggest stages.

Kicking off on March 5, the tournament will feature 16 teams battling it out in the group stage at four iconic locations. LoanDepot Park in Miami, Minute Maid Park in Houston, Tokyo Dome in Japan, and Hiram Bithorn Stadium in Puerto Rico are the chosen sites, each bringing its own flavor to the competition. Whether you’re a fan of MLB or international baseball, these venues are sure to deliver unforgettable moments.

The group stage is where the drama begins, and the matchups are already looking intriguing. Puerto Rico’s Hiram Bithorn Stadium will host Group A, featuring the home team along with Cuba, Canada, Panama, and one more team yet to qualify. Over in Houston, Group B will see the United States, Mexico, Italy, Great Britain, and another qualifying team battling it out under the roof of Minute Maid Park.

Meanwhile, the action heads to Tokyo, where Japan will host Group C at the legendary Tokyo Dome. This group includes some heavy hitters like Australia, Korea, and the Czech Republic, along with nine additional teams still to be determined. The Japanese fans are known for their passion, and the Tokyo Dome will undoubtedly be buzzing with energy as the Samurai aim to make a deep run in the tournament.

Miami’s LoanDepot Park will take center stage for Group D, featuring the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, the Netherlands, Israel, and a final qualifying team. This group promises to be one of the most comPetitive, with powerhouse nations battling for a spot in the knockout rounds. With Miami’s vibrant baseball culture, this venue is sure to provide a lively backdrop for some thrilling Games.

As the tournament progresses, the stakes will get higher. The quarterfinals are scheduled for March 13 and 14, with Miami and Houston each hosting two games. Here’s where the tournament’s unique scheduling comes into play: Team USA is guaranteed to play its quarterfinal match in Houston, regardless of their group stage performance. Japan, on the other hand, will make the long trip to Miami for their quarterfinal game, no matter how they finish in their group.

From there, all roads lead to Miami. The semifinals on March 15 and 16 and the championship game on March 17 will all be played at LoanDepot Park, the home of the Miami Marlins. It’s a fitting venue for the tournament’s climax, with the potential for high drama and memorable moments under the Miami night sky.

Whether you’re a die-hard baseball fan or just tuning in for the global spectacle, the 2026 World Baseball Classic is shaping up to be a can’t-miss event. The combination of top-tier talent, passionate fan bases, and iconic venues is a recipe for some unforgettable baseball. So mark your calendars, because this tournament is going to be one for the ages.