Message from Mr. Riccardo Fraccari, President of World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC)

Dear International Baseball Players, Friends, Fans, Clubs and Officials:

The WBSC is proud to grant a sanction and recognise the Hong Kong Shanghai Alliance - Hong Kong International Baseball Open (HKIBO 2016).

The fifth edition of this international baseball competition will bring together eight teams from five different nations, including China, Hong Kong, Philippines, Russia and Chinese Taipei. From 17-20 December, this international collection of players, coaches, officials and umpires, will share the same stage in Hong Kong.

And through the HKIBO platform, the Hong Kong Baseball Association (HKBA) continues to support the development of our global sport across both genders and beyond its own borders. HKBA has done great work to engage partners, sport/culture authorities and sponsors for this international event. This is only possible because of the growing popularity of baseball, and also the rise and attraction of women’s baseball, which HKBA continues to promote.

WBSC is grateful to HKBA, the local authorities, sponsors, officials and volunteers who make this event possible and celebrate our sport internationally – giving the athletes another opportunity to unite and demonstrate their talents.

Wishing best of luck and international friendship, respect and fair play to all the teams and athletes playing in this important HKIBO competition.