Publication date: 28 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.
2022 J1 League
The 30th season of the top division of the J1 League takes place from 18 February to 5 November 2022. Japanese football club Kawasaki Frontale will defend their title for the second consecutive season.
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 |
2021 | Japan | Kawasaki Frontale |
2020 | Japan | Kawasaki Frontale |
2019 | Japan | Yokohama F. Marinos |
2023 J1 League
Information on dates and venues for the next J1 League season is being clarified.
Keep an eye on the dates of football tournaments and other events in our Sports Events Calendar.
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