Venezuela win first World Baseball Classic title after taming USA in politically fraught final

In the capital of Caracas, the celebrations spilled into the streets late into the night.

Salvador Perez #13 and manager Omar López #22 of Team Venezuela lift the championship trophy after defeating Team United States 3-2 at loanDepot park on March 17, 2026 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

Venezuela defeated the United States 3-2 on Tuesday night to win their first World Baseball Classic title, a landmark triumph in a politically charged final that resonated far beyond the diamond.

Eugenio Suárez drove in the winning run in the top of the ninth inning to seal a dramatic victory for the South American side at Miami’s LoanDepot Park.