Venezuela Wins First Men’s Softball World Cup in Canada

Venezuela made history by winning its first-ever WBSC Men’s Softball World Cup title in Prince Albert, Canada, defeating New Zealand 3-0 in the final. The Venezuelan team's victory was propelled by a heroic performance from pitcher Maiker Pimentel, who, despite a sprained ankle sustained during the game, returned to the mound to help secure the shutout and was named tournament MVP. The United States Men's National Team claimed the bronze medal with a 10-1 victory over Japan, powered by multiple home runs and a strong pitching display from Marco Diaz. Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro praised the national team for their outstanding achievement, sparking widespread celebration and recognition from regional sports organizations. Meanwhile, on the women's softball side, Venezuelan-American catcher Kendal Lunar represented Venezuela at the 2025 Women’s Softball Pan American Championship, contributing significantly to the team’s fifth-place finish and qualification for the 2026 World Baseball Softball Confederation World Cup. Lunar highlighted the importance of this international experience as part of the team's broader Olympic aspirations.