J.League, DAZN, NTT Group Announce "Smart Stadium" Project
Deal to promote ICT infrastructure advancement in J.League stadiums and hometowns, provide brand new experiences for Japanese sports fans

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.

Steps toward "Smart Stadium" implementation:

(1) Offering a new way to enjoy the match through innovative technologies

By being able to see live stats or view instant replays of goals, fans will be able to enjoy the J.League in more ways than ever with an improved match day experience. Video services and match/player information will be delivered to smartphone and tablet devices, offering a new way to watch the match whether inside or outside the stadium.

(2) Using sports to stimulate local economies via digital marketing

New fans will be attracted to the J.League via marketing opportunities outside of the stadium provided through smartphones, tablets, and digital signage. Additionally, the Smart Stadium project will work with communities, businesses, and tourist attractions in order to mutually refer customers as well as encourage fans to support local industry and trade.

2017-2026 "Smart Stadium Project" Cooperative Agreement Outline

Representative Comments

JAPAN PROFESSIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE (J.League) Chairman Mitsuru Murai

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.

Perform Investment Japan CEO James Rushton

We are really excited to be working in in partnership with the J.League and NTT Group to improve the experience for soccer fans across Japan. With this agreement we will provide J.League fans with the highest level of stadium experience and a host of new ways to enjoy all the action.

NTT Group CEO Hiroo Unoura

We are glad to contribute to the development of the J.League. NTT Group will devote our efforts toward using the latest digital technology in order to create a new stadium experience as well as contribute toward regional promotion through digital marketing and development. We look forward to the challenge of creating a uniquely Japanese "Smart Stadium" and, beginning with the J.League, revolutionizing the Japanese sports industry.