Israel Baseball Protests Stuttgart Reds, PONY’s Decision to Deny Tournament Participation due to Political Bias
TEL AVIV [February 9, 2025] – The Israel Association of Baseball (IAB) expresses its profound disappointment and protest against the decision of the Stuttgart Reds baseball club to reject their application to compete in the annual PONY U19 Palomino tournament in Stuttgart, Germany.
Israel has a proud history of participation in PONY tournaments, having competed numerous times and achieved notable success, including winning the 2023 tournament in Stuttgart to advance to the PONY Palomino World Series in Laredo, Texas. This year’s rejection marks an unprecedented and deeply troubling shift, as the decision appears influenced by political bias rather than the merits of the team’s application.
In the rejection statement, tournament Chairman Andre Fink cited concerns over the “political situation” and the potential for “trouble-makers attacking Israeli teams” as reasons for the exclusion. He further acknowledged that “on the field, there is no problem whatsoever,” but expressed fears over incidents off the field.
This rationale is not only discriminatory but also undermines the very spirit of international sportsmanship and unity that events like PONY baseball tournaments aim to uphold. It should go without saying that one cannot claim to protect Israeli players by excluding them.
“We are shocked and deeply saddened by this decision,” said Dr. Jordy Alter, President of the Israel Association of Baseball. “To deny these young athletes the opportunity to compete based on hypothetical scenarios and perceived risks is unjust and unacceptable.”
The IAB categorically rejects the notion that Israeli teams cannot participate safely in international events. This exclusion is a troubling precedent that could have far-reaching implications for the inclusion of teams from Israel and other nations in future sporting events.
“Sports have the unique power to bring people together,” added Ian Kinsler, Team Israel manager for the World Baseball Classic. “I played PONY Baseball growing up, and am disappointed to hear about Israel being excluded from this tournament. My hope would be that PONY changes its stance.”
The Israel Association of Baseball remains steadfast in its mission to promote baseball in Israel and provide its players with opportunities to compete on the global stage. The IAB also calls upon the international baseball community to stand united against actions that threaten the integrity and inclusivity of the sport.
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