Venezuela Crowned Champions of the 2026 World Baseball Classic

MIAMI – In a stunning upset, Venezuela defeated the United States 3-2 in the championship game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic on Tuesday night, marking the nation’s first-ever title in the tournament. The victory was sealed by Eugenio Suárez’s go-ahead RBI double in the top of the ninth inning at loanDepot park, igniting a jubilant celebration among Venezuelan fans and players.

A Night of Clutch Performances

The game was a back-and-forth affair, with Bryce Harper’s two-run homer in the eighth inning briefly tying the score for the U.S. However, Venezuela responded in the ninth. Luis Arraez walked, and a stolen base by Javier Sanoja set the stage for Suárez’s decisive hit. Suárez, reflecting on the moment, stated to FOX, “Nobody believed in Venezuela, but now we win the championship.”

Eduardo Rodriguez delivered a strong performance on the mound for Venezuela, limiting the Americans to two hits through the seventh inning. A succession of relievers, including Daniel Palencia, who secured the final save with two strikeouts, preserved the lead.

A Nation United in Victory

The win sparked widespread celebrations both in Miami and back in Venezuela. Thousands gathered in Caracas’ Plaza de la Juventud, honking horns and singing the national anthem, “Gloria al Bravo Pueblo.” Venezuelan President Delcy Rodriguez declared Wednesday a National Day of Joy, with a non-working holiday for all except essential workers.

“My country needs that championship,” said outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., visibly emotional after the game. Players repeatedly emphasized the sense of unity and pride the team felt representing their nation.

Maikel Garcia Named Tournament MVP

Venezuela’s success was further recognized with Maikel Garcia being named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player. Garcia led the tournament with 10 hits and seven RBIs, batting .385 throughout the competition. He expressed his belief that Venezuela had been underestimated, stating, “They underestimated Venezuela because we had never won anything, but we are powerful.”

U.S. Falls Short in Pursuit of Title

For the United States, the loss marked another missed opportunity to add to their single World Baseball Classic title, won in 2017. Manager Mark DeRosa, who also led the 2023 U.S. Team to a runner-up finish, acknowledged the team’s struggles to generate offense throughout the tournament. Aaron Judge, despite a heralded performance, finished the tournament batting .222 with five RBIs.

A Historic Win for Venezuelan Baseball

Venezuela’s victory is a testament to the country’s rich baseball tradition, boasting 63 players on Major League Baseball opening-day rosters last year – second only to the Dominican Republic. Manager Omar López summed up the team’s spirit, stating, “Baseball wanted us to fail, to fall down. You put aside your individuality and you are going to achieve those results.”