The decision puts the Cuban athletes at a competitive disadvantage.

On Wednesday, the Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (FCBS) denounced that the United States denied visas to eight members of the Cuban delegation for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March.

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U.S. authorities alleged that visa denial was based on Section 243(d) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which restricts entry from countries considered by Washington to be uncooperative on immigration matters, including Cuba.

The Cuban team, known as ‘Team Asere,’ was seeking to improve upon its historic fourth-place finish in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. However, the U.S. decision puts the delegation at a competitive disadvantage.

The FCBS described the measure as “disrespectful” to the essence of the sport and the international commitments of the host countries, weakening the credibility and prestige of the World Baseball Classic.

Cuba was in Group A along with Puerto Rico, Colombia, Panama, and Canada, with games scheduled in Miami, Houston, San Juan, and Tokyo; venues now uncertain due to visa issues.

The announced Cuban roster included 30 players, among them two from Major League Baseball (MLB) and nine from the minor leagues (MiLB), replicating their organization from the previous tournament.

The federation stated that the applications were submitted months in advance and that the rejection is a response to the pressure tactics linked to the economic blockade, casting doubt on Cuba’s participation.

teleSUR: JP

Source: EFE

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