Is Puerto Rico a country? Explaining World Baseball Classic inclusion and its USA connection

When the 2026 World Baseball Classic kicks off, the electric atmosphere surrounding Team Puerto Rico will make one thing clear: on the diamond, they answer to no one but their own flag. As stars like Nolan Arenado and Edwin Díaz take the field in San Juan and Miami, a recurring question often arises for casual observers: If Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, how can they compete as a separate "country" in international sports? Here’s why Puerto Rico can compete in the World Baseball Classic.