WBSC Baseball5 World Cup 2024 Opening Ceremony: A Celebration of Sport and Culture

On a vibrant evening in Hong Kong, the Central Harbourfront Event Space came alive as the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup 2024 kicked off with an unforgettable opening ceremony. The event, which preceded the opening day’s final game between Hong Kong and South Africa, not only marked the beginning of a prestigious international tournament but also celebrated the spirit of Baseball5 and the rich cultural tapestry of Hong Kong.

WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari told the audience that Baseball5, since its launch in 2017, has “grown into a truly dynamic and inclusive sport”.

“The success of the first WBSC Baseball5 World Cup in Mexico City two years ago paved the way for this spectacular event, and we are thrilled to see this momentum continue.

“Congratulations to Hong Kong for hosting your first WBSC World Cup. A special thanks goes to the Baseball Association of Hong Kong, China, led by  President Mr. Fan, for their incredible efforts in hosting this tournament, and to the local community for their support in making this possible.

“To all the teams, your dedication, energy, and passion are what make Baseball5 special. We look forward to witnessing more top-level competition and unforgettable moments here in Hong Kong.”

The Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong S.A.R. Government Mr. Paul Chan spoke passionately about the importance of international sporting events in enhancing Hong Kong's global profile. “The fast ball nature of Baseball5 brings to mind the spirit of Hong Kong - efficiency, resilience, resourcefulness and fleet-footed adaptability. Qualities that have shaped Hong Kong into the thriving city it is today.

The President of the Baseball Association of Hong Kong, China, Mr. Andrew Fan, expressed his excitement about hosting the tournament. His remarks reflected the collective enthusiasm of local baseball communities and the hopes for a successful event that would inspire future generations.

"Baseball5 and Baseball are not only about competition but also excellent ways to strengthen the body, build willpower and enhance mental resilience," he said. "I sincerely hope that through this World Cup we can ignite everyone’s interest and passion for Baseball5 and Baseball."

The ceremony drew to a close with a colourful dance ceremony with local cultural performances that showcased the rich heritage of Hong Kong. Traditional dances, martial arts displays, and musical performances captivated the audience, bridging the gap between sports and local culture before the crowd counted in a stunning fireworks display into the night sky over Central Harbourfront.

With the opening ceremony successfully setting the tone, the WBSC Baseball5 World Cup 2024 promises thrilling matches and fierce competition over the next five days. Follow all the action on GameTime.Sport.