Houston, Texas has been chosen as one of the venues for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, with Minute Maid Park set to host games for the first time. The Juice Box will welcome international teams for group stage games and a quarterfinal in March 2026.
Houston’s reputation as a sports destination continues to grow, as it has seen its fair share of major sporting events in recent years. The city played host to the 2024 College Football Playoff Championship game and the Men’s Final Four in 2023, showcasing its ability to hold high-profile events.
Astros owner and chairman, Jim Crane, expressed excitement and honor at the opportunity to host World Baseball Classic matchups. He highlighted Houston as a global city with passionate baseball fans, looking forward to welcoming visitors from around the world to Minute Maid Park. “We are thrilled to be part of this incredible event,” said Crane. “Houston is a city that loves sports, and we can’t wait to showcase our hospitality and passion for baseball to the world.”
The selection of Minute Maid Park as a venue for the World Baseball Classic reflects Houston’s status as a sports destination, drawing fans and athletes from across the globe. With its state-of-the-art facilities and energetic fan base, Minute Maid Park is an ideal location for hosting top-level sporting events like this one.
