Miami, Florida – President Luis Abinader was present this Friday at LoanDepot Park for the Dominican Republic’s inaugural game in the World Baseball Classic.The president was in charge of throwing out the first pitch in the match between the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua, starting the country’s participation in this prestigious competition.The presence of President Abinader highlights institutional support for national sports in a globally significant event, where the best players in the world represent their nations.Dominican Republic, integrated in Group D, began its path towards the crown facing Nicaragua. The group also includes the Netherlands, Israel, and Venezuela.
Diplomatic Agenda in the United States
The Head of State is in Miami as part of an official visit that includes his participation, this Saturday, in a high-level summit convened by the President of the United States.About the World Baseball Classic
The sixth edition of the international tournament began on Thursday and will run until March 17. The event brings together 20 countries that will compete in 47 matches, distributed in a group stage (A, B, C and D), quarter-finals, semi-finals and the grand final.Venues and Format: The matches will be played in Japan, the United States, and Puerto Rico. The group rounds are played in Miami (Florida), Houston (Texas), San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Tokyo (Japan).Final Phase: The quarterfinals will be played in Miami and Houston, while the final round will be held in Miami.Background: Japan, the defending champion, arrives after defeating the United States in the 2023 final.Dominican Republic and its World Baseball Classic History
Dominican Republic won the World Baseball Classic title in 2013, with an undefeated record of 8-0, after defeating Puerto Rico 3-0 in the final.Only three teams have won the World Baseball Classic: Japan (three times), Dominican Republic (once), and United States (once).President Abinader’s attendance at LoanDepot Park reaffirms the Dominican Government’s support for sports and the country’s positioning in the international sports arena.President Abinader was accompanied by the Minister of Tourism, David Collado, and the Minister of Sports, Kelvin Cruz.
