2016.5.7

J.League Signs Strategic Partnership With A-League

The Japan Pro Football Association (J.League) and Australia’s A-League signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding a strategic partnership on Monday, May 2.

This partnership is intended to increase the presence of Asia in the global football community with a long-term goal of reducing the continent’s increasing focus toward European leagues. The two leagues hold a further goal of developing football throughout Asia.

This is the 10th such MOU signed by the J.League; previous partnerships include Thailand, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Singapore, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, and Qatar.

- For Reference -
Outline of Strategic Partnership between J.League and A-League

■ Date of Signing: May 2, 2016 (Monday)
■ Location: Football Federation Australia HQ (Sydney)
■ Signees: David Gallop (FFA CEO)
Daisuke Nakanishi (J.League Managing Secretary)
■ Contents of Strategic Partnership:
1. Contribution to diplomatic relationship between Australia and Japan
Study of Australia’s sporting policy, diplomatic and cultural exchange initiatives.
2. Technical & Academy Initiatives
Creation of opportunities for cultural exchange and competitive play between academy teams
through international youth tournaments, coach and referee exchanges, studies toward creating more playing opportunities for youth players.
3. League Management
Short-term exchange programs for league and club staff, delegation visits to league events.
4. Marketing
Knowledge and resource sharing intended to increase development in both leagues, cooperation in raising interest in the AFC Champions League, cross-promotion toward expat residents of both countries.

■ Postscript
Australia will not be considered part of the J.League’s “Partnership Slot” rule, which allows clubs to sign an extra foreigner from a J.League partner league.