Venezuelan and US Fans Unite in Miami for Historic WBC Final
In Miami, the atmosphere was electric as thousands of Venezuelan and American fans packed the stadium for the U.S.-Venezuela championship game at the World Baseball Classic. For many, this event transcended sport, offering a moment of pride and unity that bridged political divides and cultural backgrounds.
A Dual Celebration of Heritage and Opportunity
Pablo Cuerta, a Venezuelan-American, epitomized the spirit of the night. Watching batting practice before the game, he realized he couldn't lose. Born in Venezuela and now a U.S. citizen, Cuerta wore a Venezuela jersey and cap, with the U.S. flag draped over his shoulders. "I was born in Venezuela, and this country gave me the opportunity to come, to be a citizen," he said, having driven from near Orlando for the final days in Miami. "I appreciate both countries. One, I was born in Venezuela. And two, this one gave me everything I've got. So, I'm proud to have both countries."
Venezuelan fans showed up in force throughout the tournament, with all seven of Venezuela's games played at the Miami Marlins' ballpark. Despite the political tensions—Venezuela's deposed leader Nicolás Maduro is jailed in New York on drug trafficking charges after a U.S. military operation earlier this year—the joy for baseball remained undiminished. When both flags were presented at home plate during the pregame ceremony, the stadium erupted in a roar of support.
Baseball as a Unifying Force Beyond Politics
Argenis Masiaf, a Miami resident with the Venezuelan flag painted on his face, expressed the emotional significance of the event. "Super emotional with Venezuela and being here for the championship game. This is beyond sport. It is well deserved," he said. "We have lived through many difficult things inside our country. This is the moment for Venezuela to accomplish something so special and memorable."
Venezuela's team, led by manager Omar López, avoided political discussions, focusing instead on the game. López acknowledged the importance of reaching the final against the U.S., noting that baseball could unite Venezuela, a baseball-mad nation of about 32 million people. "Tonight, everyone is going to be together," he said. "The whole country is going to be paralyzed to watch the game, and together we are going to have better generations for our country, united with no color, political colors or ideology. We have sports. Baseball is one of the best tools or ways to educate a country."
National Pride and Community Spirit on Display
In Caracas, Venezuela's capital, streets emptied as thousands, including many children, gathered in public plazas to watch the game, dancing and waving flags. Acting President Delcy Rodríguez shared on social media, "Tonight, all of Venezuela has an appointment with baseball. For the first time in our history, we reached the World Classic final. To our guys, we say with our hearts: Let’s go Venezuela! The whole country is with you."
Josh Rojas, a student from Utah, arrived outside the stadium three hours early, with a "V" for Venezuela painted on his face and proudly carrying a flag. "Me and my family knew Venezuela would make a good run, so we came," he said. "Man, it’s meant everything. I’m a Latino American, and it’s just making me more proud of my Latin heritage. It’s just awesome to see a whole country, a whole community come together to support this country through baseball."
Even those not typically interested in baseball, like Jaci Douglas, a medical student from Pennsylvania, recognized the event's significance. "My mother is Venezuelan. I have in-laws who are Venezuelans," she said. "They're all here tonight and they told me that if I miss this, I'd regret it. ... It's an event."
Cuerta reflected on the widespread viewership in Venezuela, the country he left eight years ago. "It’s going to be a lot of parties, everywhere," he said. "Every space, every restaurant, every street, everywhere. Everybody’s watching. When we're born, that's the first thing your parents do. Before they send you to school, they send you to the field. That's what they mean when they say it's in our blood."
This report includes contributions from Associated Press Reporter Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela.
