The Santa Clara team, representing Cuba in the 2024 Little League World Series hosted in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, has arrived at Miami International Airport from Havana. Known as the “Bombarderos de Santa Clara,” they secured their spot by winning the championship against the Sancti Spíritus team on March 2, a victory that earned them the right to represent Cuba in this prestigious international event scheduled for August 14-25.
Before departing Cuba, the young athletes were taken on a "visit" to the Museum of Dictator Fidel Castro in Havana, as reported by the sports portal Swing Completo, highlighting the indoctrination imposed on Cubans.
International and U.S. Divisions
The tournament is divided into two smaller sections: International and United States. On August 25, the U.S. winner will face its international counterpart. International teams are categorized into regions including Asia-Pacific, Australia, Canada, Caribbean, Cuba, Europe-Africa, Japan, Latin America, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
The Cuban players' first match will be against the Europe-Africa representative, a team from the Czech Republic. Not all games are do-or-die; the tournament follows a double-elimination format, allowing teams to lose one game early and still have a chance to become champions.
Last year marked Cuba's historic debut in this type of event, with a team from Bayamo, Granma. During that event, one of the Cuban team's coaches, José Alberto Pérez González, defected from the delegation.
FAQs About the Santa Clara Team and Little League World Series
Below are some frequently asked questions regarding the Santa Clara team's participation in the Little League World Series and related events.
When will the Santa Clara team play their first match?
The Santa Clara team will play their first match against the Europe-Africa representative, a team from the Czech Republic.
What format does the Little League World Series follow?
The tournament follows a double-elimination format, meaning teams can lose one game early and still have a chance to win the championship.
What was significant about Cuba's participation last year?
Last year marked Cuba's historic debut in the Little League World Series with a team from Bayamo, Granma. Notably, one of the coaches, José Alberto Pérez González, defected from the delegation during the event.