Puerto Rico Projecting $10.4M Boost, 27,000 Extra Room Nights from Hosting World Baseball Classic Qualifiers

Puerto Rico is set to take center stage in the world of sports next spring. Governor Jenniffer González Colón and Puerto Rico Tourism Company Executive Director Willianette Robles Cancel shared new details this week about the island’s role as host of the first qualifying round of the 2026 World Baseball Classic, a move expected to deliver both a major economic boost and unparalleled international exposure.

The tournament will take place March 6–11, 2026, at the historic Hiram Bithorn Stadium in San Juan, with ten games scheduled between Puerto Rico, Cuba, Colombia, Canada and Panama.

“This event gives us the opportunity to continue showing the world our love for sports, the passion of our people and the island’s capacity to host world-class events,” González Colón said. She emphasized that the games are expected to generate $29 million in economic impact and $67 million in global media exposure, reinforcing Puerto Rico’s profile as a leading destination for major international events.

A Tourism Windfall

For Puerto Rico’s tourism sector, the World Baseball Classic represents more than just a tournament — it’s a global showcase. Robles Cancel highlighted that the event is projected to generate 27,000 room nights across the island, representing a direct impact of $10.4 million to the local economy.

One of the most valuable benefits, she explained, comes from destination imagery embedded in international broadcasts, effectively transforming each game into a tourism spotlight. “It’s an ideal showcase to highlight the island’s attractions on a global stage,” Robles Cancel noted.

The government’s $5 million investment will help maximize exposure, support logistics and ensure the delivery of what officials describe as a “world-class spectacle.” Additional tourism revenue is expected from ground transportation, tour services, entertainment, equipment rentals, shopping and cultural experiences tied to the games.

A Global Stage and Local Pride

Beyond the economic impact, the tournament is a moment of national pride. Tuti Muñoz, vice president of MB Sports and producer of the World Baseball Classic in Puerto Rico, called hosting the event “a privilege and a great responsibility.”

“This international event not only represents an important economic injection for the island, but also an opportunity to reaffirm our identity as a baseball-loving nation,” Muñoz said. “The Classic unites us as a people, inspires our children to dream big, and positions Puerto Rico as a world-class stage. It’s a moment that transcends sport and reminds us of the power of collaboration, culture and Boricua pride.”

In addition to the games, organizers are planning community sports clinics to benefit local youth, similar to initiatives tied to other major events like Experience the Magic in July and the upcoming NBA exhibition game this October.

A Milestone Month for Sports Tourism

March 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark month for Puerto Rico’s growing sports tourism sector. Alongside the World Baseball Classic qualifiers, the island will also host the FIBA Women’s Basketball Tournament, further boosting hotel demand, job creation and local spending.

With world-class infrastructure, a strong tourism offering and proven experience in staging international competitions, Puerto Rico is positioning itself as a leading destination for marquee sports events — a strategy that blends cultural pride, economic development and global reach.