OREANDA-NEWS. The J.League, DAZN(live sports streaming service provided by Perform Group), and NTT Group will cooperate on the Smart Stadium project, a groundbreaking initiative to promote the advancement of ICT (Information and Communication Technology) in J.League stadiums and club hometowns. The 10-year agreement will begin in 2017 and continue through 2026.

Beginning with the home grounds of J1 League clubs, the Smart Stadium project will seek to establish WiFi access and information services in stadiums throughout Japan. From internet access to new enjoyable new content and services, the ICT initiative will extend the fan experience from the stadium to nearby communities in exciting ways. Clubs and players will be provided with innovative ways to cultivate new fans through this initiative, in turn establishing deeper connections with their local regions.

The agreement with Perform Group is the first long-term, large-scale agreement for broadcasting rights in the history of Japanese sport. and I see it as proof that the Japanese sports industry’s content is being regarded as an attractive international investment. It is also the first case of an agreement with a vendor whose main business is the Internet and mobile, an area that is rapidly evolving.

Through this cooperative effort with NTT Group, the Smart Stadium Project as well as the digitalisation of regional communities will advance even further than before. With this ground-breaking initiative, the J.League will increase its strategic investments and raise football’s level and domestic interest in order to enhance the industry.