Full Breakdown
Curaçao Wins Second Little League World Series Title, Defeating Nevada 11-2
8/31/2026, 8:05:19 AM
Core Event
Curaçao’s Pariba Little League team captured its second Little League World Series championship, beating Nevada’s Paseo Verde Little League 11-2 in the final at Lamade Stadium. The victory marked the island’s first title since 2004 and completed an unbeaten 6-0 run through the double-elimination tournament.
Background & Context
Curaçao, an autonomous constituent country of the Kingdom of the Netherlands with roughly 158,000 residents, has become a recurring force in youth baseball. After its inaugural championship in 2004, the island secured titles in 2005, 2019, 2022 and 2023, positioning itself as a Little League powerhouse. The 2026 squad, representing Pariba Little League of Willemstad, entered the final after defeating Japan 4-0 in the International championship.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Curaçao 11, Nevada 2.
- Scoring bursts: six runs in the third inning, four in the fourth, and a bases-clearing double in the fifth.
- Pitching: Juriënsly De Windt allowed two runs (one earned) over three innings; relievers Giendry Ryan and Steven Felix combined for four strikeouts in the final three innings.
- Tournament record: Curaçao outscored opponents 23-3 across four games and finished 6-0 overall.
- Nevada’s path: 4-1 overall, including a 12-2 U.S. championship win over Ohio.
Official Statements & Responses
Curaçao coach Railison Gijsbertha highlighted disciplined preparation, noting strict schedules of nutrition, sleep and practice throughout the two-week tournament. He praised the players’ composure after early setbacks and expressed pride in bringing the trophy back after a 22-year gap.
Nevada head coach Cory Edwards reflected on his team’s historic run and the significance of Carsynn Meyer becoming the first American girl to play in a Little League championship game. He encouraged his players to stay connected and cherish the “hell of a ride” they shared.
Verbatim Quotes
- “When we went to the shop, we saw people from the States were buying our stuff,” — Railison Gijsbertha
- “I hope they shoot me a text or give me a call and just remember that it was a hell of a ride.” — Cory Edwards
On-the-Ground Reports
The championship atmosphere was electric. After the final out, outfielder Giendry Ryan tossed his glove aloft as teammates swarmed him, while Curaçao’s infielders doused each other with water and fans behind the third-base dugout waved the island’s navy-blue and yellow flag. Spectators from the United States purchased Curaçao-branded hats and sought autographs, underscoring the team’s growing international fan base.
Why It Matters
Curaçao’s triumph reinforces the island’s reputation for producing elite baseball talent, joining former major-league players such as Andrelton Simmons and Xander Bogaerts. The victory also highlights the expanding global reach of Little League baseball, with a Caribbean team defeating a U.S. side in a decisive final.
