Paris is a beautiful city, known for its art, fashion, and delicious cuisine. However, when it comes to sports, the city is best known for soccer (or football as it’s called in Europe).
But what about baseball? Does Paris have a baseball team? Let’s explore.
The History of Baseball in France
Baseball has been played in France since the late 19th century. The first recorded game was played in 1889 between two teams of American students studying in Paris. In the early 20th century, baseball grew in popularity and several French teams were formed.
However, the sport never really caught on with the general public and was overshadowed by soccer and rugby. Baseball also faced competition from other sports like basketball and handball which were more popular among young people.
Paris Teams
Currently, Paris does not have a professional baseball team. However, there are several amateur teams that play in local leagues. Some of these include:
Paris Université Club
This is one of the oldest baseball clubs in France and was founded in 1926. The club has both a men’s and women’s team and competes at various levels of French baseball.
Paris Baseball Club
This club was founded more recently in 2004 but has quickly become one of the top teams in France. They currently play in Division 1 of the French Baseball League.
Baseball Events in Paris
While there may not be a professional team based in Paris, there are still opportunities to see live baseball games. One such event is the annual Challenge de France tournament which brings together some of the top amateur teams from across the country.
Another event is the All-Star Game which features some of the best players from each division of French baseball. The game is held every year at a different location and has been hosted in Paris several times.
Conclusion
In summary, while Paris may not have a professional baseball team, there are still opportunities to watch the sport live and support local amateur teams. Baseball has a rich history in France and continues to be played by dedicated enthusiasts across the country. If you’re a fan of the sport, be sure to check out one of the local teams or events next time you’re in Paris.