World Baseball & Softball Confederation Baseball5 Youth Championships: The Fast, Urban Take on Baseball
- MEI
- Nov 20, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 13
The Baseball5 Youth Championships, organized by the World Baseball & Softball Confederation (WBSC), is a fast-paced, five-on-five, five-inning street version of baseball and softball that’s designed for urban settings. Played on a basketball court-sized space, this innovative format is perfect for festival-style gatherings and engaging new audiences with the game.
About Baseball5
Baseball5 simplifies the traditional game, requiring minimal equipment and space while delivering high-energy competition. As an urban sport, it’s accessible to everyone and perfect for showcasing baseball and softball in vibrant, open-air environments.
Event Overview
Year: 2025.
Timing: Flexible within the year.
Duration: 1 week.
Venue Requirements:
Three venues suitable for Baseball5 games.
At least one venue equipped with lights for evening matches.
Previous Edition: Ankara, Turkey, 2023.
Hosting Requirements
Venue
Three venues, including one with evening lighting, sized equivalent to a basketball court and suitable for open-air play.
Logistics
Accommodation: Availability for 140 delegates for 10 nights, with athletes covering their own costs.
Transportation: Local transportation for WBSC crew and riders between the airport and accommodation.
Safety and Security: Implementation of measures per WBSC’s technical manual.
Senior Staff: Cover flights and accommodation for 3 senior WBSC staff.
Media and Audience Reach
Broadcast and Digital Coverage
Global audience via international media distribution, streaming by WBSC, and coverage on the Olympic Channel.
Engagement
The urban nature of the game appeals to a younger demographic and festivalgoers, creating high energy and visibility.
Benefits of Hosting
Hosting the Baseball5 Youth Championships offers cities significant economic and promotional advantages:
Economic Impact
Estimated $120,000 return on investment through visitor spending, ticketing revenue, and merchandising sales.
Global Exposure
Extensive media coverage puts the host city on the map as a supporter of innovation in sports.
Community Engagement
Inspires local youth participation in urban sports.
Opportunity to align the city’s brand with inclusivity and athletic innovation.
Why Host Baseball5?
"Baseball5 is more than just a game—it’s a movement to bring baseball and softball to urban environments, engaging communities and inspiring a new generation of players. Hosting the Baseball5 Youth Championships is an opportunity to showcase your city as a hub for sports innovation and community connection."
