Japan Men's Ice Hockey Team to Play First Home International Matches in Nine Years Against South Korea
The Japan men's national ice hockey team is set to play international matches on home soil for the first time in nine years, facing regional rival South Korea on April 18 and 19, 2026. Sponsored by the Asahi Shimbun, these games in Tokyo and Yokohama serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Championship in Poland and aim to boost the sport's popularity in Japan. The men's team, currently ranked 20th globally, has not participated in the Winter Olympics since 1998, contrasting with the consistent presence of the women's team. Despite failing to qualify for the recent Milan-Cortina Olympics, players like Teruto Nakajima express optimism, citing improved individual skills gained through overseas leagues in Europe and North America. Officials emphasize that these matches are vital for demonstrating the team's progress and closing the gap with stronger European nations. The series represents a significant step toward the long-term goal of Olympic qualification, highlighting the growing competitiveness of Japanese athletes on the global stage while fostering domestic interest in ice hockey.
Wire timeline
Japan Men's Ice Hockey Team to Play First Home International Matches in Nine Years Against South Korea
The Japan men's national ice hockey team is set to play international matches on home soil for the first time in nine years, facing regional rival South Korea on April 18 and 19, 2026. Sponsored by the Asahi Shimbun, these games in Tokyo and Yokohama serve as crucial preparation for the upcoming World Championship in Poland and aim to boost the sport's popularity in Japan. The men's team, currently ranked 20th globally, has not participated in the Winter Olympics since 1998, contrasting with the consistent presence of the women's team. Despite failing to qualify for the recent Milan-Cortina Olympics, players like Teruto Nakajima express optimism, citing improved individual skills gained through overseas leagues in Europe and North America. Officials emphasize that these matches are vital for demonstrating the team's progress and closing the gap with stronger European nations. The series represents a significant step toward the long-term goal of Olympic qualification, highlighting the growing competitiveness of Japanese athletes on the global stage while fostering domestic interest in ice hockey.
asahi