As the 32nd edition of the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup enters its decisive phase, anticipation is reaching fever pitch in Okinawa, Japan. Following six days of high-stakes, action-packed baseball during the Opening Round, the tournament — presented by RAXUS — now moves into the Super Round, where six elite teams remain in contention: Japan, USA, Korea, Chinese Taipei, Panama, and Puerto Rico.
Each team arrives with one goal in mind: to claim the most prestigious title in U-18 baseball. And the reward is no ordinary trophy.
Crafted by the esteemed Italian goldsmith Fratelli Pazzaglia, the WBSC U-18 Baseball World Cup trophy is a stunning symbol of sporting excellence. Standing 43 cm tall and weighing 10 kg, the trophy is made from polished 24k gold-plated brass, enriched with vibrant enamel and intricate colored detailing. Its sweeping curves echo both the motion of a baseball and the grace of a batter’s swing, representing the perfect fusion of strength and elegance.
Every inch of the trophy is the result of exceptional craftsmanship. Advanced 3/5-axis CNC machines shape each brass component, which are then finished by hand — a nod to Italy’s storied tradition of artisanal mastery. To complete the look, the surface undergoes galvanic treatments that apply contrasting layers of gold and silver, producing a striking interplay of polished and satin finishes.
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This year’s tournament continues a proud legacy. Since its inception, the U-18 Baseball World Cup has crowned 31 champions. Cuba and the USA lead the honors list with 11 and 10 titles, respectively. In 2023, Japan etched its name into history by capturing its first-ever championship on home soil.
Now, as the final weekend draws near, the question remains: Who will rise to the occasion and hoist the trophy in 2025?
