Venezuelan baseball league suspends 2026 season indefinitely after earthquake

The Venezuelan Professional Baseball League (LMBP) has announced the definitive suspension of its 2026 season, a decision stemming from the severe consequences of a powerful earthquake that struck Venezuela on June 24.

LMBP President Arturo Cupido stated that the league's owners unanimously agreed to the suspension. The decision reflects a profound sense of solidarity with the thousands of Venezuelan families mourning losses in the wake of the national tragedy. The league emphasized that its focus has shifted from baseball to supporting the country's recovery.

In a statement, the LMBP declared, "We are officially ending our league's 2026 season. However, we are also beginning a much more important and transcendental season: the season of helping to rebuild, from the ruins, the debris, and the pain, the hope and life of those who need us most today." The league also committed to honoring financial obligations to teams, enabling them to support their players and staff.

Official figures from the President of the Venezuelan Parliament, Jorge Rodríguez, indicate that the earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, have resulted in 920 deaths and 3,360 injuries. Approximately 383 buildings sustained total or severe damage, with La Guaira being the most heavily impacted region.