In a significant development for the global sports broadcasting landscape, Netflix has acquired the exclusive media rights to stream all 47 games of the 2026 World Baseball Classic in Japan. This marks the streaming giant's inaugural foray into live sports broadcasting within the Japanese market.

The 2026 WBC is scheduled to commence on March 5, 2026, and will feature 20 teams competing across multiple venues, including Tokyo, San Juan , Houston, and Miami. The tournament will culminate with the finals on March 17 in Miami. Japan enters the competition as the defending champion, having secured the title in the 2023 edition by defeating the United States.

Netflix's acquisition of the Japanese broadcasting rights signifies a strategic move to expand its live sports offerings in the region. This partnership follows a previous collaboration with Amazon Prime Video for the WBC, highlighting the growing interest in streaming platforms as primary broadcasters for major sporting events.

The WBC, established in 2006, has gained substantial popularity over the years, showcasing baseball talent from around the world. The 2026 edition is anticipated to draw significant viewership, especially in Japan, where baseball holds a cherished place in the nation's sports culture.

This development also underscores the evolving dynamics of sports broadcasting rights, with streaming services increasingly vying for exclusive content to attract subscribers. As the 2026 WBC approaches, fans can look forward to comprehensive coverage of the tournament, accessible through Netflix's platform in Japan.