WBSC and SSK extend strategic partnership through 2033

The World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC) has announced the extension of its long-standing partnership with Japanese baseball brand SSK Corporation (SSK), securing a new long-term agreement covering eight years from 2026 through 2033.

The expanded agreement spans sponsorship, VIK/supply, and licensing rights, reinforcing SSK’s position as a key strategic partner within the WBSC’s global baseball programme.

The partnership will cover WBSC’s flagship baseball properties, including the Premier12, Premier12 Qualifiers, Baseball World Cups, and LA28 Olympic Games Qualifying Tournaments.

By aligning SSK’s international market expansion and growth strategy with the WBSC’s global value proposition, the partnership has evolved into one of the largest and most comprehensive agreements within the WBSC’s partnership portfolio. The renewed collaboration reflects a shared commitment to innovation, performance, and the continued growth of baseball worldwide.

“SSK has been a trusted partner of the WBSC for many years, and this long-term extension reflects the strength of our relationship and our shared vision for the future of baseball,” WBSC President Riccardo Fraccari said. “By combining SSK’s global ambitions with the WBSC’s premier international events and platforms, we are creating significant value for the sport and its stakeholders around the world. This agreement is a clear statement of confidence in baseball’s continued global growth.”

Kyoichi Sasaki, President of SSK Corporation, commented: “As SSK approaches its 80th anniversary in 2026, we are pleased and proud to renew our partnership with the WBSC. Guided by our brand mission, ‘Baseball, it’s our game,’ SSK has connected people around the world through baseball, providing products and opportunities that help individuals achieve a better life - or ‘game. The WBSC continues to expand the appeal of baseball not only through World Cups across age categories, but also through eSports and Baseball5, which can be enjoyed with just a single ball. Together with the WBSC, SSK will continue to take on new initiatives to share the limitless dreams and excitement that baseball offers.”

SSK’s continued investment underscores its commitment to supporting elite international competition while expanding its global footprint through WBSC events that reach athletes, fans, and markets across all continents.

The extended partnership builds on the successful collaboration between WBSC and SSK across recent cycles, further strengthening the commercial and operational foundations of WBSC baseball events as the sport moves toward a landmark decade that includes the LA28 Olympic Games.