On behalf of the entire J.LEAGUE, I wish everyone a very Happy New Year.

In the third season under the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of spectators in 2022 recovered to over 70% of that in 2019, even with restrictions still in place on attendance and the watching style. Sounds of cheering have also returned to the stadiums since June.

As I have always said, football is a work in creation. The passion and atmosphere that overflow from supporters is essential for creating an attractive work, and their cheers certainly give a boost to the players on the pitch.

I am sincerely grateful for everyone’s cooperation in preserving our football culture.

Although the Japan National Team narrowly missed reaching the quarterfinals at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, the players’ dynamic performance thrilled the entire nation. It was a moment of re-realization about the power of football.

J.LEAGUE will continue to press ahead without stopping for Japan’s success at the next World Cup and the World Cup after that, and for the children of the future.

J.LEAGUE will celebrate its 30th anniversary this year.

Starting out with ten clubs in 1993, J.LEAGUE has now grown to 60 clubs from 41 prefectures with the recent addition of FC Osaka and Nara Club.

I hope that the 60 clubs will shine in their respective hometowns and that the top clubs will grow to shine even brighter, making the new year an exciting one for all the club personnel and football lovers.

I look forward to your continued understanding and support toward J.LEAGUE’s activities this year.

Yoshikazu Nonomura
Chairman
Japan Professional Football League