The Cuban Baseball and Softball Federation (FCBS) issued a formal note of protest today against restrictions imposed by the United States, which have prevented its official call to participate in the VI World Baseball Classic.

Denunciation of Discriminatory Measures

In the statement, the FCBS denounced that, despite submitting in due time its request to present a preliminary roster of 50 players, the organizers claimed they had not received approval from the U.S. government. The Federation described this as a “discriminatory policy against Cuban players.”

“The process has been characterized by unjustified delays that generate uncertainty and undermine the technical work of preparation,” the statement underlined, while also questioning the incompatibility of such measures with the sporting spirit and the principles of respect, fairness, and transparency.

Defense of Cuba’s Right to Compete

The Federation stressed that Cuba “does not ask for privileges” and that its athletes earned their right on the field, backed by a historic tradition of Olympic and world titles. It added that the talent and passion of Cuban baseball “will not bow to political exclusions.”

A Legitimate and Necessary Protest

According to the FCBS, this protest is both legitimate and necessary: sport must unite, not serve as a hostage to external disputes. Beyond bureaucratic hurdles, Cuban players deserve to compete in the Classic, as they earned their place through fair play and proven quality. (CubaSí)