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The Cuban Federation of Baseball and Softball (FCBS) confirmed this Wednesday that Cuba will return to the Caribbean Series in 2026, after reaching an agreement with the Caribbean Professional Baseball Confederation (CBPC) and the sports authorities of Venezuela, the host of the event.
"We thank the Caribbean Professional Baseball Confederation and Venezuela, as the host, for the invitation for Cuba to take part in the Caribbean Series 2026 scheduled for Caracas from January 30 to February 7," published the FCBS on its official account on X.
An advance news report that has now been confirmed
Although the official confirmation arrived this week, the news had already been announced last February by Giuseppe Palmisano, president of the Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LVBP), in statements to ESPN Digital.
According to previous news, the 2026 edition will represent a significant step in the international expansion of the tournament, which will feature eight teams: Venezuela, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Cuba, Japan Breeze (Japanese representation), KBO League (South Korea), and Italy.
This expanded format reflects the CBPC's commitment to diversifying the tournament, strengthening its competitive level, and opening new doors to emerging markets in international baseball.
A symbolic return for Cuba
The return of Cuba holds historical significance. The island was a founding member and a key player in the early stages of the tournament. After decades of absence, it returned in 2014 as a guest and went on to claim the championship in 2015 with the Vegueros de Pinar del Río.
However, the lack of full membership in the CBPC —a pending issue since then— was one of the main reasons why the island was excluded over the past five years. Its last participation took place in 2023, also in Venezuela.
A new chapter or a temporary involvement?
Despite the excitement that the news has generated in sports circles, the agreement remains preliminary, leaving open questions about Cuba's continued participation in future editions, the formalization of its status as a permanent member, and the conditions of its involvement.
Cuba is preparing to return to a tournament it helped establish, hoping to regain international prestige and reconnect with regional fans, in a context where baseball continues to represent identity, but also reflects the existing crisis on the island.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuba's Return to the Caribbean Series 2026
When will Cuba return to the Caribbean Series of Baseball?
Cuba will return to the Caribbean Series in 2026, after reaching an agreement with the Caribbean Professional Baseball Confederation (CBPC) and the sports authorities in Venezuela, which will host the event.
What is the significance of Cuba's return to the Caribbean Series?
The return of Cuba to the Caribbean Series holds a historic significance, as the island was a founding member of the tournament and played a key role in its early days. Its return in 2026 represents an effort to regain international prestige and reconnect with the regional fan base in the context of baseball, which remains an important part of Cuban identity.
Which teams will participate in the Caribbean Series 2026?
The 2026 Caribbean Series will feature eight teams: Venezuela, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Cuba, Japan Breeze (Japan), KBO League (South Korea), and Italy. This expanded format aims to diversify the tournament and enhance its competitive level.
What are the challenges faced by Cuban baseball in participating in international tournaments?
Cuban baseball faces significant challenges, such as the need to renew its approach, improve competitive results, and overcome structural limitations. Additionally, the lack of inclusion as a full member of the CBPC has been a barrier to its continued participation in the Caribbean Series.
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