NEWS

Japan will compete in the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa with a new emblem on their shirt, the JFA revealed Monday in Tokyo.

The new emblem has changed its base colors from yellow and red to white and red to symbolize the national flag of Japan. The emblem was changed for the first time since 1996.
“We want to wear this new emblem as we aim for a top-four finish in the World Cup in South Africa,” JFA President Motoaki Inukai said. “Wearing this emblem, we hope our supporters will compete with us together in the World Cup.”
Japan and Nagoya Grampus goalkeeper Seigo Narazaki, who has taken part in three World Cups, commented, “Whenever we wear the Japan shirt, we always play with pride. I hope we can produce good results wearing the new emblem.”
The Japan men’s senior team will make their “debut” with the new emblem in a friendly match against South Africa in Johannesburg next month, while the Nadeshiko Japan women’s team will wear it in a friendly against New Zealand on November 14 at Komaba Stadium in Saitama.
Rumi Utsugi of the Nadeshiko Japan said, “Seeing the renewed emblem has reminded me of my responsibility as a Japan player. I hope we can produce the first win with this new emblem when we play New Zealand next month.”
Futsal Japan player Yusuke Komiyama commented, “This has deepened my feelings towards the world and the Futsal World Cup in three years time. When a national team performs strongly, it can boost football in the country. We would first like to focus on winning next year’s Asian Cup.”