The Classic Returns to FoxFox Sports is once again stepping to the plate, having secured the broadcasting rights for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. This means the much-anticipated tournament will be accessible to fans across the United States via Fox’s extensive network lineup that includes Fox One, Tubi, and traditional network TV. With their unmatched coverage strategy, Fox aims to capture the fiery passion, national pride, and sheer talent that defines this global baseball event.A Fiery TraditionSince its inception in 2006, the World Baseball Classic has provided a unique platform where baseball’s best compete under their national flags. Players cherish this moment, embodying both a personal and collective pride on the international stage. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the 2023 edition climaxed with Team Japan’s victory over Team USA, a moment that resonated powerfully with fans around the globe, especially when the viewership peaked at over 6.5 million, driven by the matchup between Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout.Expanding Audience ReachFox’s deal ensures that seven marquee games, including those pivotal clashes involving Team USA, the quarterfinals, and the championship game, will be broadcasted on their network. Meanwhile, other important games will stream on FS1 and FS2, along with Fox One and Tubi, thus broadening the event’s reach to a diversified audience more than ever before. Such expansive coverage helps sustain baseball’s growth as a global sport, aligning with MLB’s vision of relentless innovation and heightened entertainment value.Partnerships Driving the Sport Forward“The World Baseball Classic lets the best players represent their nations, merging passion with unmatched talent,” said Bill Wanger, Fox Sports’ executive vice president. The MLB Deputy Commissioner for Business and Media, Noah Garden, echoed this sentiment, praising Fox’s longstanding partnership in showcasing baseball’s rich tapestry of narratives, both on-field and off-field dynamics.Global PhenomenonWith Netflix already securing broadcasting rights in Japan, where baseball viewership rivals the Super Bowl, there is a confirmed appetite for this event across continents. The tournament is a celebration of diversity and athletic excellence, spurring a sense of unity through sportsmanship. Evan Kaplan, President of MLB Players, Inc. acknowledged, “The Classic is universally valued, standing as a testament to baseball’s storied tradition and global significance.”Expectations are high for the 2026 World Baseball Classic to surpass past tournaments in drawing the eyes of the world to this cherished sport, courtesy of Fox Sports’ comprehensive coverage strategy.