Netflix Wins Japanese Rights to 2026 World Baseball Classic
Netflix has made a surprising move by securing the rights to stream the 2026 World Baseball Classic tournament in Japan. This international baseball championship, owned by MLB and operated jointly by the league and the MLB Players Association, has been a staple since 2006. While Netflix has previously streamed documentary series about Major League Baseball, this new venture into live sports streaming marks a significant expansion of their sports content.
The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed, but it is clear that Netflix is stepping up its game in the world of sports entertainment. In addition to the World Baseball Classic, Netflix has recently struck a deal to stream NFL games on Christmas Day and has been producing more “behind the scenes” documentaries focused on major sports leagues.
Kaata Sakamoto, vice president of content for Netflix in Japan, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “With Netflix already in millions of Japanese homes, we are excited to deliver a new kind of viewing experience that brings fans even closer to the action, the players, and the heart of the tournament, wherever they are.”
As part of the agreement, Netflix will stream all 47 games of the 2026 World Baseball Classic live and on-demand for viewers in Japan. This move showcases the growing popularity of the tournament and highlights the efforts of the World Baseball Classic Inc. to engage with fans through innovative digital platforms.
Noah Garden, MLB’s deputy Commissioner of business and media, emphasized the significance of the partnership with Netflix, stating, “By joining forces with a leader in entertainment, we are not only honoring the tradition of baseball, but also embracing the future — ensuring that fans of all ages and backgrounds can enjoy the tournament in ways that fit their lives today.”
The upcoming sixth edition of the World Baseball Classic will feature 20 teams competing in four first-round pools in Tokyo, San Juan, Houston, and Miami, starting on March 5 and 6, 2026. Team Japan will be defending their championship title in what promises to be an exciting and highly anticipated event for baseball fans worldwide.
