#canada

Canada Launches First Sovereign Wealth Fund to Fund Nation-Building Projects Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the creation of Canada’s first sovereign wealth fund, the Canada Strong Fund, during a Monday press conference in Ottawa. The initiative, described as a groundbreaking step for the country, aims to finance major development projects in energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture, and technology. The fund will initially receive a contribution of C$25 billion ($18.4 billion; £13.5 billion), with plans to expand its scope over time. Carney emphasized that the fund will collaborate with the private sector to support “nation-building projects,” including upgrades to ports and advancements in natural resource development. The announcement comes amid growing concerns about U.S. tariff threats, which the Carney government claims will be mitigated through this economic stimulus. Carney highlighted that Canada, like Norway, possesses significant natural resources but has historically lacked a sovereign wealth fund. “Many countries that are blessed with natural resources like Norway have sovereign wealth funds. Canada hasn’t had one, until now,” he stated. The fund’s structure allows Canadians with “a bit of extra money” to invest directly, though experts have raised concerns about its potential for limited returns. The Montreal Economic Institute issued a warning, stating that the fund “risks costing taxpayers dearly while generating limited returns.” The institute’s critique underscores skepticism about the fund’s ability to deliver substantial financial gains, particularly given Canada’s current debt levels.#united_states #canada #mark_carney #montreal_economic_institute #sovereign_wealth_fund

Canada's Bill C-12 and the Threat of Deportation for Thousands of Indians The Canadian government has implemented a significant immigration reform through Bill C-12, which introduces stricter rules for asylum seekers and visa holders. This law, now in effect, grants the government expanded authority to cancel visas and immigration documents on a large scale, while imposing strict deadlines for asylum applications. The legislation has sparked controversy, with human rights organizations warning of its potential impact on vulnerable populations, including thousands of Indian nationals. Key provisions of Bill C-12 include a one-year deadline for asylum seekers to file their claims after arriving in Canada. Individuals who submit applications beyond this period will have their cases rejected, a change that has raised concerns about the ability of those facing delayed or complex situations to seek protection. Additionally, the law applies retroactively to some existing or pending asylum cases, potentially affecting up to 19,000 individuals. This retroactive provision has drawn criticism for its broad scope and the uncertainty it creates for those already in the system. The government argues that these measures are necessary to address growing pressures on Canada’s immigration system. Officials claim the law aims to streamline processes, reduce fraud, and ensure that only legitimate claims are processed. They emphasize that all decisions will adhere to constitutional and international standards, including the 1951 Refugee Convention. The government also asserts that individuals whose applications are rejected will still have access to pre-removal risk assessments (PRRA), which evaluate the safety of returning to their home countries.#canada #bill_c12 #amnesty_international_canada #indian_nationals #refugee_rights

U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick takes a swipe at Canada's trade strategy ahead of review U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick criticized Canada’s trade strategy and the current version of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (CUSMA) during remarks at a conference hosted by Semafor, signaling growing U.S. frustration with the trade pact ahead of upcoming renegotiations. Lutnick, speaking on behalf of President Donald Trump, described CUSMA as a “bad deal” that could potentially lapse before the July 1 deadline for its review. He emphasized the need to “reimagine” and “readdress” the agreement, citing its shortcomings despite some positive aspects. Lutnick’s comments were part of broader remarks about Canada’s economic policies, where he mocked Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent trade visit to China. “They suck,” he said, referring to Canada’s trade strategy, while highlighting the U.S.’s $30-trillion economy as a counterpoint to Canada’s perceived reliance on American markets. He questioned the logic of Carney’s efforts to secure Chinese investments, noting that China’s export-driven economy would not prioritize Canadian goods. “Does he think the Chinese economy is going to buy his stuff?” Lutnick asked, criticizing Canada’s focus on Chinese electric vehicles as “nuts.” A U.S. Commerce Department spokesperson later clarified that Lutnick’s remarks about Canada “sucking” referred to the trade imbalance between the two nations, not the negotiation strategy. The spokesperson stated that Lutnick was addressing the “unfair trade imbalance” and the impact of Canada’s economic dependence on the U.S. The criticism comes amid ongoing trade talks between the U.S. and Canada, with the review of CUSMA scheduled for July 1. U.S.#canada #mark_carney #us_commerce_secretary_howard_lutnick #semaphor #us_mexico_canada_agreement

As Canada dream gets costlier, Punjab youth look to UK, NZ, Dubai Sheetal, a 20-year-old from Ludhiana, has spent two years chasing the Canadian dream, only to face repeated visa rejections. Her story reflects a growing trend among Punjab’s youth, who are now turning to the UK, New Zealand, and Dubai as alternatives to Canada. Once a straightforward path for students from Punjab’s Doaba and Malwa regions, the Canadian immigration route has become increasingly restrictive and expensive, reshaping migration patterns and challenging the long-standing dream of settling in the West. The Canadian government’s recent policy shifts have significantly impacted students and immigration agencies. By capping student permits and tightening “proof of funds” requirements, Canada has signaled the end of the “easy entry” student visa era. The Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), a financial requirement for international students, has nearly doubled in cost, rising from $10,000 to over $22,000. This financial burden has made the Canadian dream unaffordable for many middle-class families, forcing them to explore other destinations. The changes have also disrupted the migration industry, which has long thrived in Punjab’s cities like Ludhiana, Jalandhar, and Chandigarh. These regions, once hubs for aspiring students, now face a decline in demand for Canadian immigration services. Agencies that once catered to thousands of students are now struggling, with many shifting their focus to the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. The once-thriving IELTS coaching industry, a critical step for students aiming to study abroad, has seen a sharp decline in activity. The Canadian government’s decision to reduce the number of study permits issued has disproportionately affected smaller provinces, including Punjab.#pakistan #canada #jalandhar #chandigarh #ludhiana

Canada’s International Student Policy Faces Reckoning Amid Integrity and Stability Challenges Over the past weeks, a series of reports and commentaries have highlighted the evolving challenges facing Canada’s international student program. These analyses reveal a complex situation marked by unresolved integrity issues, policy instability, and significant consequences for institutions and communities. The Auditor General’s 2026 report underscores that while study permit caps have reduced overall student numbers, systemic flaws persist, leaving the program in a state of uncertainty. The report notes that approvals fell far below projections in 2024, with fewer than half the expected number approved. This sharp decline has left immigration departments unable to explain the drastic drop, while over 153,000 students were flagged as potentially non-compliant. However, the Immigration and Refugee Protection Agency (IRCC) lacked the resources to investigate most cases, only addressing 2,000 annually. Experts like Shamira Madhany of World Education Services and Andrew Petter, former president of Simon Fraser University, have emphasized that the system faces both credibility and design challenges. The rapid surge in applications between 2019 and 2023, combined with inconsistent integrity tools and policy responses that overlooked downstream impacts on institutions, communities, and students, has created a fragmented framework. Their insights align with the Auditor General’s findings, which confirm that while reforms have curbed student numbers, they have not established a coherent or calibrated system. The lived experiences of students and institutions further illustrate the depth of the crisis.#canada #immigration_and_refugee_protection_agency #british_columbia #immigrant_services_society_of_bc #simon_fraser_university

Immigration: Canada Was a Dream Destination for Indian Students. Is That Changing? Canada was once a top choice for Indian students seeking education and a pathway to permanent residency. However, a sharp decline in applications has raised questions about whether this trend is reversing. For years, Canada’s private colleges offered a seemingly reliable route for middle-class Indian families, allowing students to enroll in vocational courses, secure jobs after graduation, and eventually apply for permanent residency. This process, which typically took around five years, was a major draw. But recent policy changes, economic pressures, and diplomatic tensions have disrupted this model, leading to a dramatic drop in Indian students applying to Canada. The shift is evident in the data. According to a report by Canada’s auditor general, the share of Indian students in the country’s international student population fell from 51.6% in 2023 to 8.1% in September 2025. This decline has been driven by a combination of factors, including stricter visa and immigration policies, rising living costs, and a diplomatic crisis between the two nations in 2023. At an education consultancy in Delhi, Shobhit Anand, who runs a firm that helps students navigate admissions and visa processes, noted that applications for Canada dropped by nearly 80% since 2023. “People don’t want to apply to Canada anymore,” he said. “We’re also seeing a very high visa rejection rate.” One of the most significant changes was Canada’s 2024 policy restricting the number of international students admitted to undergraduate and diploma programs. The government capped study permits at around 350,000 per year, a move that hit smaller colleges hardest.#india #canada #shobhit_anand #sushil_sukhwani #mccgill_university

Cleanest and Dirtiest Air in U.S. Revealed The IQAir 8th annual World Air Quality Report, released in 2025, provided a detailed analysis of global air pollution trends, emphasizing the significant impact of wildfires exacerbated by climate change. The report examined data from 9,446 cities across 143 countries, regions, and territories, revealing alarming levels of particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5) pollution. PM2.5, a type of fine inhalable particle with diameters of 2.5 micrometers or smaller, poses serious health risks when inhaled. The findings highlighted a global decline in cities meeting the World Health Organization’s (WHO) annual average PM2.5 guideline, with only 14% of cities achieving this standard in 2025, compared to 17% in 2024. Wildfires emerged as a critical factor in worsening air quality, particularly in North America and Europe. Canada, which experienced its second-worst wildfire season on record, became the most polluted country in Northern America for the second time in the report’s history. The smoke from these fires significantly elevated PM2.5 levels across the United States, affecting regions such as the Great Lakes states during the summer and the Pacific Northwest in the fall. In the U.S., annual average PM2.5 levels rose to 7.3 micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m³), a stark increase compared to previous years. The report identified El Paso, Texas, as the most polluted major U.S. city in 2025. Historic dust storms, the most severe since the 1930s, triggered a 46% spike in PM2.5 levels, reaching 11.4 µg/m³. The Southeast Los Angeles region, including areas like Cudahy, East Los Angeles, and Huntington Park, was named the most polluted area in the country due to its vulnerability to wildland-urban interface fires.#canada #iqair #world_air_quality_report #wildfires #el_paso_texas

AI Being Used to Add Fake Details in Immigration, Asylum Applications, Federal Officials Say Federal officials in Canada have warned that artificial intelligence is being used to fabricate details in immigration and asylum applications, creating new challenges for agencies tasked with verifying the authenticity of claims. Both Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), an independent tribunal that adjudicates asylum cases, have confirmed detecting AI-generated narratives, including fabricated court decisions and misleading legal references. The issue has raised concerns about the integrity of the immigration process and the potential for systemic fraud. The IRB highlighted that the use of AI in asylum applications is complicating its operations. In a statement, the tribunal noted that memoranda of appeal are becoming longer, yet the increased volume does not correlate with stronger arguments. Instead, some documents include references to non-existent case law or cite legal precedents that do not support the claims they present. This has added unnecessary complexity and time to the review process, as IRB employees must now scrutinize applications for potential inaccuracies. The consequences of such fraud are severe. If misrepresentation, the use of fake documents, or other forms of fraud are confirmed, foreign nationals can face a five-year ban from entering Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency, IRCC, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) are responsible for investigating immigration fraud.#canada #immigration_refugees_and_citizenship_canada #immigration_and_refugee_board #royal_canadian_mounted_police #isabelle_dubois

Canada Battles AI-Generated Fraud in Asylum Applications Canadian federal authorities have warned that artificial intelligence is being exploited to create fraudulent information in immigration and refugee applications, even as government agencies leverage the same technology to combat such schemes. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and the Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB), an independent tribunal overseeing asylum cases, have confirmed identifying instances where AI was used to fabricate details within submissions. IRCC spokesperson Isabelle Dubois told the Globe and Mail that the department has observed cases where AI tools were employed to generate deceptive applications. She emphasized that while efforts to detect and prevent fraud are ongoing, sharing specific examples could inadvertently assist fraudsters in evading detection. The IRB highlighted that the rise of AI-generated fraud poses a significant challenge for its staff. Appeals are becoming more prolonged, yet the increased volume of cases does not always correlate with stronger legal arguments. Officials noted that some submissions include references to non-existent court decisions or legal precedents that do not align with the claimants’ actual positions. This has introduced unnecessary complexity and delays in the adjudication process. In a statement, the IRB acknowledged that the trend complicates its operations, requiring additional resources to verify the authenticity of claims. Toronto immigration lawyer Max Berger described AI as the next evolution of “ghost consultants”—individuals who fabricate documentation or narratives for asylum seekers.#canada #immigration_refugees_and_citizenship_canada #immigration_and_refugee_board #max_berger #royal_canadian_mounted_police

Apple TV app Adds Crunchyroll as New Channel, Expanding Anime Access Crunchyroll, a leading global anime streaming service, has been integrated into the Apple TV app, making its extensive anime library available to users in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The partnership allows subscribers to access Crunchyroll directly through the Apple TV app, eliminating the need for separate apps on various devices. Users can now stream anime on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming boxes, and gaming consoles, offering greater convenience for fans. The service is available for a one-week free trial, after which it costs $9.99 per month. This addition marks a significant development for Apple TV’s Channels feature, which has not seen major updates from major streaming services in recent years. Crunchyroll’s integration is notable as it represents the first substantial new channel added to the Apple TV app in a long time, highlighting the growing demand for anime content and Apple’s efforts to enhance its streaming offerings. Apple’s Channels initiative, launched in 2019, allows third-party services to integrate their content into the TV app, providing users with a unified platform. However, support for the feature has been limited among streaming providers in recent years. Crunchyroll’s inclusion brings several benefits to users, including the ability to watch content without downloading additional apps, access to ad-free viewing, offline downloads, and the option to share subscriptions via Family Sharing. The move underscores the increasing importance of anime as a global entertainment category and Apple’s strategy to cater to niche audiences. By partnering with Crunchyroll, Apple strengthens its position in the streaming market while offering users a more streamlined experience.#apple #united_states #canada #crunchyroll #apple_tv_app

Deloitte Canada And Stablecorp Launch Stablecoin Infrastructure For Canada Tax consultants Deloitte Canada and financial technology firm Stablecorp have announced the launch of the first stablecoin infrastructure tailored for the Canadian marketplace. Both companies, which operate as privately held entities, emphasized that their collaboration aims to provide financial institutions across Canada with enhanced tools for digital asset integration. This initiative comes as the federal government in Ottawa prepares to introduce Bill C-15, a landmark piece of legislation expected to establish regulatory frameworks for stablecoin adoption and usage within the country. The proposed law is anticipated to foster innovation in digital assets while ensuring compliance and consumer protection. The partnership between Deloitte and Stablecorp combines Deloitte’s expertise in financial services and payments with Stablecorp’s digital asset infrastructure capabilities. The stablecoin infrastructure is designed to leverage blockchain technology to improve the efficiency, reliability, and traceability of financial transactions both within Canada and internationally. “Stablecoins present a significant opportunity for Canada's payments landscape,” stated Soumak Chatterjee, a partner at Deloitte, in a press release. He highlighted the potential of stablecoins to modernize payment systems and support financial inclusion. Stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies pegged to assets like the U.S. dollar or gold, have gained traction as a reliable alternative to volatile cryptocurrencies. The collaboration aims to make these stablecoins accessible to a broader audience by integrating them into existing financial systems. Stablecorp CEO Kesem Frank noted that the project seeks to ensure the benefits of a Canadian digital dollar are available to all users.#canada #stablecorp #deloitte_canada #bill_c15 #ottawa

Eid al-Fitr 2026: Dates and Traditions in the US, UK, and Canada Eid al-Fitr 2026 marks the conclusion of Ramadan, a month of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. The festival is celebrated with communal prayers, festive meals, and charitable activities, emphasizing gratitude, generosity, and family bonds. Zakat al-Fitr, a charitable donation, is often given to ensure that all community members can partake in the celebrations. The exact date of Eid al-Fitr varies by region due to the lunar-based Islamic calendar, which relies on the sighting of the crescent moon to determine the start of each month. In the United States, Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Thursday, March 19, with the first day likely falling on Friday, March 20. This timing is based on moon sightings confirmed by Islamic Relief, which noted that the waxing crescent moon’s visibility will determine the exact date. The Islamic calendar, being lunar, causes Islamic festivals to shift approximately 11 days earlier each year compared to the Gregorian calendar. In the United Kingdom, the celebration of Eid al-Fitr 2026 depends on the visibility of the crescent moon. If the moon is sighted over the British Isles on Thursday, March 19, the festival will begin on Friday, March 20. However, if the moon is not visible, the celebration will be postponed to Saturday, March 21, following the completion of the 30-day Ramadan period. Observers in the UK may use binoculars or telescopes to spot the crescent, as the moon’s visibility can be challenging with the naked eye. For Canada, Eid al-Fitr 2026 is anticipated to fall on either Thursday, March 19, or Friday, March 20, depending on moon sightings.#united_states #eid_al_fitr_2026 #canada #united_kingdom #islamic_relief

Lanlana Tararudee Stuns Bianca Andreescu to Become First Thai Woman in Top 100 Lanlana Tararudee claimed victory in the Austin WTA 125 final on Saturday, defeating former US Open champion Bianca Andreescu in three sets (6-3, 3-6, 6-3) to secure her first career title. The 21-year-old Thai player, ranked No. 124 entering the tournament, became the first Thai woman to break into the world’s top 100 since Luksika Kumkhum. The match, which lasted one hour and 55 minutes, marked a historic moment for Southeast Asian tennis. Tararudee’s journey to the final was marked by consistency and determination. She advanced through qualifying without dropping a single serve, defeating Dalma Galfi, Caty McNally, and Anastasia Zakharova. In the semifinals, she overcame Kimberly Birrell in a three-set battle (6-4, 7-6(4)), showcasing her ability to handle pressure. By the time she reached the final, she had the demeanor of a seasoned competitor. Andreescu, a 25-year-old Canadian, had her own challenges. After a grueling week that included three consecutive three-set matches, including a semifinal victory over Paula Badosa, she faced a final that would test her resilience. Though she fought back to level the match at one set apiece, Tararudee’s composure in the deciding set proved decisive. The Thai player broke Andreescu twice as the Canadian’s legs showed signs of fatigue, ultimately sealing the win with the same calmness that defined her performance throughout the tournament. The victory solidified Tararudee’s place in the top 100, a milestone that highlights her growth as a player. Her game is characterized by consistency, tactical versatility, and mental toughness.#thailand #canada #bianca_andreescu #lanlana_tararudee #austin_wta_125

Canada's Bianca Andreescu loses in final of Austin 125 Bianca Andreescu’s bid for a breakthrough at the Austin 125 tournament ended in defeat as she fell to Thailand’s Lanlala Tararudee in the final on Saturday. The match, which concluded with a score of 6-3, 3-6, 6-3, marked the end of a challenging week for the Canadian player, who had hoped to secure a victory after a series of setbacks in her career. Andreescu, whose world ranking has dropped to No. 165 following multiple injury-related breaks, competed in the Austin 125 as part of her strategy to regain consistency. The tournament, classified as a lower-tier event on the WTA tour, provided an opportunity for her to build momentum ahead of larger competitions. Despite the loss, the result is expected to improve her ranking, moving her up to No. 146 in the coming weeks. The 25-year-old’s recent season has been marked by a focus on smaller tournaments, a shift from her earlier high-profile appearances. Andreescu, who reached a career-high ranking of No. 4 in 2019 after winning the U.S. Open and two other titles, has struggled with injuries in recent years, limiting her ability to compete at the highest level. Her participation in the BNP Paribas Masters in Indian Wells, Calif., last week—a wildcard entry—ended in a first-round exit, further highlighting the challenges she faces in regaining her form. Looking ahead, Andreescu is set to compete in a Miami Open qualifying match on Sunday, a key step in her efforts to return to the top tier of women’s tennis. Her performance in the Austin 125, while not yielding a title, underscores the ongoing journey to rebuild her career after a difficult period. The loss to Tararudee, a player ranked No. 124, serves as both a setback and a reminder of the competitive nature of the sport at all levels.#wta #canada #bianca_andreescu #austin_125 #lanlala_tararudee

Historic U.S. heat wave will influence Canada’s weather next week A major and likely historic heat wave is expected to intensify across the western United States next week, with temperatures potentially spiking to unprecedented levels. The event is driven by a powerful ridge of high pressure, which is forecast to extend into parts of Western Canada, bringing above-seasonal warmth to the region. This atmospheric pattern could set new records for monthly heat, including the United States’ highest temperature ever recorded during March. The ridge of high pressure, one of the strongest observed this early in the year, will dominate the weather system, forcing air to sink and warm as it descends. This process creates dry, hot conditions that will peak in two stages. Initially, the ridge will strengthen over southern California early in the week before shifting east and re-intensifying over Arizona. The result will be extreme heat that could surpass historical benchmarks in multiple locations. Phoenix, Arizona, is projected to experience its hottest March temperature on record, with a predicted high of 43°C (109°F) on next Saturday. This would eclipse the previous record of 37.7°C (100°F) set on March 26, 1988. Similarly, Las Vegas, which has never officially exceeded 33.8°C (93°F) in March, could hit 39°C (102°F) during the heat wave. Other cities in the desert southwest, including Los Angeles, Palm Springs, and Death Valley, are also expected to break their all-time March temperature records. The U.S. national March temperature record, currently held at 42.2°C (108°F) in Rio Grande City, Texas, on March 30, 1954, is likely to fall during this event. The extreme heat will not be confined to the U.S.#las_vegas #canada #western_united_states #phoenix_arizona #b_c_coastline

Six Canadians set to compete at THE PLAYERS Championship for 2026 PONTE VEDRA BEACH, Fla. — Six Canadian golfers will compete in the PGA TOUR’s THE PLAYERS Championship, which returns to the Stadium Course at TPC Sawgrass from March 10 to 15. The event features 123 players, including Corey Conners of Listowel, Ont., Mackenzie Hughes of Dundas, Ont., Taylor Pendrith of Richmond Hill, Ont., Nick Taylor of Abbotsford, B.C., A.J. Ewart of Coquitlam, B.C., and Sudarshan Yellamaraju of Mississauga, Ont. The field includes 47 of the top 50 players in the Official World Golf Ranking and competitors from 24 countries. Conners, Canada’s highest-ranked player in the field, is known for his consistency on the PGA TOUR. A two-time winner on the tour, he has established himself as a regular contender in major events and aims to build on a strong start to the season. Pendrith, who claimed his first PGA TOUR title in 2024, returns to TPC Sawgrass after a successful campaign. As one of the longest hitters on the tour, he has climbed the FedExCup standings and remains a frequent top performer. Taylor, the first Canadian to win the RBC Canadian Open since 1954, is back in the field after his 2023 victory. A five-time PGA TOUR winner, he has been a reliable force for Canada in recent years. Hughes, a two-time PGA TOUR champion, returns to THE PLAYERS after a strong start to the season. Known for his putting skills, the Dundas native has consistently contended in high-stakes events and will aim to navigate the challenging Stadium Course. Two Canadians will make their THE PLAYERS debuts this week. Ewart, a PGA TOUR rookie and former standout at Barry University, earned his spot as part of his first full season on the tour. Yellamaraju, another rookie, will also compete for the first time after securing PGA TOUR status.#canada #tpc_sawgrass #the_players_championship #corey_conners #mackenzie_hughes

2026 World Baseball Classic Bracket, Schedule, Standings The World Baseball Classic has moved into its knockout phase, with several teams securing their quarterfinal berths. Japan and Korea have already advanced from Pool C, while the Dominican Republic and Venezuela have claimed their spots in the quarterfinals from Pool D. Four remaining teams—two from Pool A and two from Pool B—will compete for the final four knockout round slots. In Pool A, Puerto Rico and Canada have emerged as the top contenders. Puerto Rico defeated Colombia 5-0 and Cuba 4-1, while Canada routed Colombia 8-2 and narrowly edged Panama 4-3. The remaining games in Pool A will determine the final two teams to advance. On March 10, Canada faces Puerto Rico at 7 p.m. ET on Tubi, with a potential matchup against Cuba on March 11 at 3 p.m. ET on FS2. Pool B has seen the United States dominate, with a 15-5 victory over Brazil and a 9-1 win against Great Britain. Mexico also advanced with a 8-2 win over Great Britain and a 5-3 victory over the U.S. The final games in Pool B will feature Italy, which defeated Great Britain 7-4 and Brazil 5-2, against the U.S. on March 10 at 9 p.m. ET on FS1, followed by a matchup against Mexico on March 11 at 7 p.m. ET on Tubi. In Pool C, Japan and Korea secured their spots, with Japan defeating Chinese Taipei 13-0 and Korea edging Chinese Taipei 5-4. The remaining teams in the pool, Australia and Czechia, will face off on March 10 at 6 a.m. ET on FS1. Pool D has been a showcase of power, with the Dominican Republic sweeping all its games, including a 12-3 win over Nicaragua and a 10-1 victory over Israel. Venezuela also advanced with a 11-3 win over Israel and a 4-0 shutout of Nicaragua. The final games in Pool D will see Israel face the Netherlands on March 10 at 7 p.m.#united_states #dominican_republic #world_baseball_classic #puerto_rico #canada

World Baseball Classic Schedule and Results: Canada, Italy Advance; USA Moves On The 2026 World Baseball Classic progressed with key matchups and outcomes shaping the tournament’s path to the quarterfinals. Canada secured its place in the quarterfinals by winning Pool A, while Italy advanced from Pool B. The United States also advanced after a notable victory, though Mexico’s loss to the U.S. marked a setback for their campaign. The tournament schedule featured a mix of high-profile games and regional matchups. On March 11, Canada defeated Cuba 7-2, while Italy routed Mexico 9-1. Venezuela and the Dominican Republic were set to play later that day, with the winner advancing to face Japan in a critical quarterfinal matchup. The U.S. and Canada faced off on March 13, with the U.S. securing a decisive win that propelled them to the next round. Standings reflected the tournament’s competitive nature. In Pool A, Canada and Puerto Rico both finished with a 3-1 record, while Cuba and Colombia struggled. Pool B saw Italy dominate with a perfect 4-0 record, followed by the U.S. at 3-1. Mexico and Great Britain faced elimination, with Brazil being the last team to be eliminated. Pool C was led by Japan and Korea, while Pool D saw the Dominican Republic and Venezuela advance without losing a game. Results from earlier rounds highlighted dramatic performances. Japan dominated with a 13-0 win over Chinese Taipei, while the U.S. crushed Brazil 15-5. Canada’s 8-2 victory over Colombia and Italy’s 8-0 sweep of Brazil underscored the depth of talent across the field. Notable games included Venezuela’s 11-3 win over Israel and Mexico’s 16-0 rout of Brazil, which showcased the intensity of the competition.#united_states #world_baseball_classic #italy #canada #mexico

Cal Quantrill, a right-handed pitcher for Canada, is set to start the decisive Pool A game against Cuba in the World Baseball Classic, a match that will determine Canada’s advancement to the quarterfinals. The game, scheduled for Wednesday, marks a critical moment in the tournament as both teams enter with identical 2-1 records, trailing Puerto Rico’s 3-1 tally. Quantrill, who signed a minor-league deal with the Texas Rangers in February, made it clear his commitment to representing Canada outweighed any potential conflict with his new team. Quantrill, who previously pitched for the Cleveland Guardians in the 2022 American League Division Series, emphasized the importance of competing in the WBC, calling it “a little like the playoffs.” He noted that while the tournament’s rules limit pitching appearances, the preparation remains consistent with high-stakes games. “You really can't afford to take a game off,” he said, adding that his routine for the Cuba matchup would mirror his approach in the postseason. Canada’s path to the quarterfinals became clear after a 4-3 loss to Panama on Sunday eliminated any alternate routes to advancement. The team’s focus now centers on securing a win against Cuba, a task Quantrill is eager to tackle. “I wasn’t going to miss this opportunity,” he said, reflecting on his decision to prioritize the WBC over spring training. The Rangers, he added, were understanding of his choice. The Canadians’ strategy against Cuba includes leveraging data on the team’s hitters, as Quantrill admitted he is unfamiliar with many of the Cuban players. Cuba is expected to start left-handed pitcher Livan Moinelo, a star from the NPB, who will benefit from four days of rest between outings. Blue Jays reliever Yariel Rodriguez, who has already pitched 4.1 innings in two games, is likely to follow Moinelo.#world_baseball_classic #canada #cal_quantrill #cuba #livian_moinelo

Canada secures dramatic upset victory over Puerto Rico in World Baseball Classic Canada delivered a thrilling upset victory over host Puerto Rico in a rain-impacted World Baseball Classic matchup on March 10, 2026, defeating the Caribbean nation 3-2 at Estadio Hiram Bithorn in San Juan. The win, which came after a series of delays due to inclement weather, marked a pivotal moment in Pool A as Canada (2-1) now faces Cuba (2-1) in the final group game of the round. A Canada victory would secure the Pool A title, while a Cuba win would send Puerto Rico (3-1) to the quarterfinals. The game, which began with a 45-minute delay due to rain, saw Canada’s pitching staff dominate Puerto Rico, limiting the hosts to just five hits. Three Canadian pitchers combined to hold Puerto Rico to a single extra-base hit, with a pair of bases-loaded walks in the third inning giving Canada a 2-1 lead. The decisive run came in the fourth when Miami Marlins outfielder Owen Caissie doubled and scored on Abraham Toro’s single, extending Canada’s advantage to 3-2. Caissie, who is now 6 for 11 in the tournament, became a key figure in Canada’s offensive surge. Canada’s bullpen played a critical role in preserving the lead, with Brock Dykxhoorn earning the save by pitching a perfect ninth inning. Dykxhoorn, who had not pitched in affiliated baseball since 2018, took over after Logan Allen and Brock Balazovic anchored the first three innings. Allen, who had previously pitched in the majors under the name L.T. Allen, delivered three strong innings of relief, keeping Canada’s pitching staff sharp despite the weather disruptions. Puerto Rico’s pitching, led by Jose De Leoń, initially held its own, striking out top Marlins prospect Owen Caissie in the second inning.#world_baseball_classic #puerto_rico #canada #san_juan #estadio_hiram_bithorn