Netflix has announced an exclusive partnership with World Baseball Classic Inc. to stream the 6th World Baseball Classic in Japan. Starting in March 2026, all 47 games will be available live and on-demand via Netflix. The announcement follows Netflix's prior collaborations with Major League Baseball on acclaimed documentary projects. Details on additional programming and original content will be shared at a later date.

Netflix Secures Exclusive Streaming Rights for WBC in Japan

On August 26, Netflix revealed it has signed an exclusive agreement with World Baseball Classic Inc. to stream the 2026 World Baseball Classic in Japan. The tournament's 47 games will be available live and on-demand to Japanese viewers through the platform. Netflix stated that fans can enjoy top-tier global talent and unforgettable moments throughout the event.

Partnership Builds on Previous MLB Collaborations

Netflix highlighted its existing relationship with Major League Baseball as the foundation for this deal. Past co-produced documentaries such as The Turnaround (2024), The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox (2024), and The Clubhouse: A Year with the Red Sox (2025) received critical acclaim and global distribution. The streaming giant plans to continue expanding its baseball-related offerings.

2026 World Baseball Classic to Take Place in Four Cities

The 6th edition of the World Baseball Classic will begin on March 5–6, 2026. Matches will be held across four cities: Tokyo (Japan), San Juan (Puerto Rico), Houston (Texas), and Miami (Florida). Twenty teams will be divided into four pools. Japan enters the tournament as defending champions, having claimed their third title in 2023 after Shohei Ohtani struck out Mike Trout in the final game.

Comments from MLB, Netflix, and MLB Players, Inc. Representatives

Noah Garden, MLB Deputy Commissioner for Business & Media, commented:
“This partnership reflects the growing popularity of the World Baseball Classic and the increasing global media interest in the tournament. It also demonstrates WBCI’s commitment to strengthening fan engagement through cutting-edge digital platforms.

“By joining forces with Netflix, which has already achieved great success in global live sports streaming and leads the way in entertainment, we are creating an environment where fans from all generations and backgrounds can enjoy the tournament in ways that suit their lifestyles, all while honoring the tradition of baseball.

“Together with Netflix, we aim to bring an even more exciting and unifying World Baseball Classic experience to fans in Japan.”

Kazutaka Sakamoto, Vice President of Content, Netflix Japan, said:
“We are honored to have been chosen as the new destination for the World Baseball Classic in Japan through this partnership with WBCI.

“Whether it's long-time fans or people watching baseball for the first time, we will strive to ensure everyone can enjoy the tournament in a way that fits their daily lives.

“With Netflix already used in many households across Japan, we hope to offer fans an unprecedented viewing experience that brings them closer to the players and the excitement of the tournament. We also aim to collaborate with a wide range of partners across Japan to spread the appeal of baseball and turn the World Baseball Classic into a nationwide celebration.”

Evan Kaplan, President of MLB Players, Inc., added:
“The players are deeply committed to promoting the game of baseball worldwide through their participation in the World Baseball Classic and other international competitions.

“Japanese fans have consistently demonstrated their incredible passion for international baseball over the years. The World Baseball Classic is one of the most unique stages in the sport, where the best players in the world compete with pride for their home countries.

“Through today’s announced media partnership, we hope fans in Japan can witness one of the most exciting international tournaments and feel the passion and commitment of the players on the global stage.”

Source : ORICON NEWS