Publication date: 29 Aug 2022
About the Japan Football Championship
The J1 League is a professional football league for Japanese players. It runs from March to December and features 18 teams.
Until 1993, Japanese football was at an amateur level.
2025 J1 League
The 33rd season of the J. League top division will be held from February 14 to December 6, 2025. Japanese football club Vissel Kobe will defend its title.
Tournament format and key changes
The J. League is traditionally held in a round-robin format, where 18 teams play 34 matches, meeting each other at home and away. In 2025, the organizers have retained this format. However, changes are expected in the regulations regarding refereeing, video assistant referees (VAR), and the system for distributing places in international tournaments.
The three worst teams at the end of the season will go to the second division (J2 League), and the best teams will fight for a spot in the AFC Champions League.
Favorites of the season
Yokohama F. Marinos, Kawasaki Frontale and Urawa Red Diamonds are traditionally among the main contenders for the title. These clubs consistently perform at a high level, with a strong selection of players and experienced coaches. However, surprises are not uncommon in the J. League – mid-table teams often impose a fight on the giants, and newcomers manage to create sensations.
The transfer campaign is also of interest. Japanese clubs are actively strengthening themselves with legionnaires. Meanwhile, young talents from the J-League system are increasingly attracting the attention of European teams.
History of the Japan Football Championship
The first national football league was the Japan Soccer League. It was organized in 1965. Members of this league were amateur players and dedicated their time to football in their spare time.
The start of the J1 League dates back to 1993 with 10 teams participating.
Until 2004, the championship was organized in 2 phases.
Since 2005, the championship has taken the form that it is today. The number of teams has been increased to 18. The championship is organized in 2 rounds. Every club that receives the most points is considered the champion. Each club is allowed to have a maximum of 5 legionnaires from other countries. Brazilian footballer Zico, Pierre Littbarski from Germany are famous guest players who have contributed to the popularity and development of J1 League and Japanese footballers.
Previous winners of J1 League seasons
| The year | Venue | Results/ Winning team |
| 2024 | Japan | Vissel Kobe |
| 2023 | Japan | Vissel Kobe |
| 2022 | Japan | Yokohama F. Marinos |
2026 J1 League
Information on the dates and location of the next J. League season is being confirmed.
Keep an eye on the dates of football tournaments and other events in our Sports Events Calendar.
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