The Government of Sint Maarten has approved a 25,000 Caribbean guilder contribution to support the 2026 Latin America and Caribbean Little League Baseball Tournament, reaffirming its commitment to youth development, sports, and sports tourism.
Approved by Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina with the support of the Council of Ministers, the funding will assist the St. Maarten Little League Association in hosting the regional championship, which officially began on July 11.
The nine-day tournament brings together teams from across Latin America and the Caribbean, welcoming hundreds of young athletes, coaches, officials, and supporters to the island. Beyond the competition, officials expect the event to generate economic activity for local businesses, increase visitor arrivals, and further position Sint Maarten as a destination capable of hosting major international sporting events.
Prime Minister Mercelina said the investment reflects Government's commitment to creating opportunities for young people while strengthening the country's international profile. He noted that sports help develop leadership, discipline, teamwork, and character, while tournaments of this scale also provide valuable exposure for the island's tourism sector and economy.
The Prime Minister also commended the St. Maarten Little League Association, its volunteers, coaches, parents, sponsors, and community partners for organizing the event, and encouraged residents to support Team Sint Maarten by attending the games and extending the island's renowned hospitality to visiting delegations throughout the tournament.