Mexico Challenges Dominican Republic at Caribbean Series with Two Host Teams
In 2026, Mexico will challenge the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean Series, with two host teams participating. Historically, local teams have faced considerable challenges at the Series, as only 15 out of 67 editions have seen host nations crowned champions. Salvador Escobar, president of the Mexican Pacific League, highlighted the pressure of competing on home soil.
Mexico: The Emergent Host for the 2026 Caribbean Series
Due to political instability in Venezuela, Mexico emerged as a host for the 2026 Caribbean Series. The tournament includes teams from multiple countries, such as:
- Mexico: Charros de Jalisco and Tomateros de Culiacán
- Dominican Republic: Leones del Escogido
- Puerto Rico: Cangrejeros de Santurce
- Panama: Federales de Chiriquí
The decision to include two Mexican teams aims to enhance the tournament’s appeal and ensure its financial success. Previous Caribbean Series have featured multiple teams from the same country, such as the 1974 tournament in Hermosillo and the 2003 event in Carolina.
Mexico’s Track Record as Host
Since adopting a new tournament format in 2013, Mexico has hosted six of the last 14 Caribbean Series. By 2027, the number will increase to seven. Escobar emphasized Mexico’s capability to cater to sports enthusiasts with high-quality experiences.
Details of the 2026 Caribbean Series
The Caribbean Series is set to take place from February 1 to February 7, 2026, at the Estadio Panamericano in Zapopan, near Guadalajara. This state-of-the-art stadium can accommodate 15,500 fans and boasts:
- 67 screens
- 30 suites
- Five restaurants
- High-speed internet access
- A press box for 150 journalists
- Eight radio and television booths
In this upcoming Series, the Charros de Jalisco will be referred to as Mexico Rojo, while the Tomateros de Culiacán will be called Mexico Verde. The dual representation is expected to increase Mexico’s chances of winning at home.
Mexico’s Championship History
Since its first Caribbean Series participation in the 1970s, Mexico has hosted the tournament 17 times (18 times including 2026) and has won the championship twice, despite claiming a total of nine titles. Last year, the Charros de Jalisco, as the local team, finished strong but ultimately lost in the finals to the Dominican team, with the score being a narrow 1-0.
Escobar expressed a desire for a final showdown between Mexico Rojo and Mexico Verde, noting the anticipation for a rematch against the Dominican Republic. He emphasized the need for Mexico to reclaim the championship, given their last title win in 2016 when the Venados de Mazatlán triumphed in Santo Domingo.
