WBSC expands global Blind Baseball Development Programme

The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC), in close collaboration with the Italian Blind Baseball Association (AIBxC), is strengthening its commitment to inclusive sport with the expansion of the Blind Baseball Development Programme.

Member Federations now have access to dedicated development grants designed to help introduce and grow the discipline in their countries or territories.

As part of the WBSC’s ongoing effort to support accessible pathways to sport, the organisation will also officially sanction the third Blind Baseball International Cup, set to take place in 2026, further underscoring the discipline’s global momentum.

National Federations interested in launching Blind Baseball activities can apply for development grants through their respective WBSC Continental Liaison. Applications should outline:

• Project scope and objectives
• Beneficiaries
• Dates and timeline
• Location
• Draft programme
• Budget

All applications will undergo a comprehensive internal review before approval.

Blind Baseball events must be held in safe locations with minimal ambient noise - an essential factor for player orientation and communication - and on standard natural-grass baseball fields. The WBSC and AIBxC strongly encourage partnerships with local associations supporting visually impaired individuals to ensure programmes are delivered with the highest standards of safety, accessibility and expertise.

How to apply for Blind Baseball Development Grants

Blind Baseball is an adapted sport developed by AIBxC in 1994.

Designed specifically for athletes with visual impairments, the game uses adaptations such as auditory cues and safety zones, while preserving the core elements of traditional Baseball.

AIBxC and the Italian Baseball Softball Federation (FIBS) hold an 11-team Blind Baseball Italian League (LIBCI) championship. Leonessa Brescia is the defending Champion.

Italy is the two-time Blind Baseball European Champion and winner of the first edition of the Blind Baseball International Cup, held in the Netherlands in 2022. Cuba won the second edition in 2024, held in the United Kingdom. A third edition is scheduled for 2026 for which the WBSC will announce the host and dates soon.