LaLiga, Japan leagues partner to boost women’s football

LaLiga, the Japan Women’s Empowerment Professional Football League (WE LEAGUE), and the Japan Women’s Football League (NADESHIKO LEAGUE) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to formalise their ongoing collaboration, which has been in place throughout 2024.

The agreement, set to run until December 2026, focuses on fostering the sustainable growth of women’s football in Japan and Spain. Key areas of cooperation include the exchange of knowledge and best practices, as well as collaboration on technical, financial, and institutional development.

Guillermo Pérez, LaLiga’s delegate in Japan, emphasized the importance of the partnership.

“We are delighted to sign this MOU with the Japan Women’s Empowerment Professional Football League and the Japan Women’s Football League, formalizing the great work we’ve been doing together.

Working together and sharing knowledge is key to unlocking the full potential of women’s football, not just in Japan and Spain, but worldwide. We believe this agreement is a significant step in that direction.”

Ken Adachi, General Secretary of the WE LEAGUE, echoed this sentiment.

“This agreement strengthens the connection between Spanish and Japanese football and creates new opportunities. By sharing knowledge and working together, we aim to help both sides grow and elevate women’s football to the next level. We believe this partnership is a crucial step toward a brighter future.”

Junko Egawa, General Secretary of the NADESHIKO LEAGUE, highlighted the importance of the collaboration.

“As Japan’s highest-level amateur women’s football league, partnering with LALIGA and the WE LEAGUE is a significant step in advancing women’s football across the country.

“Spain is a leader in European women’s football, and this agreement will lead to high-quality exchanges.

“With 24 teams across Japan, the NADESHIKO LEAGUE plays a crucial role in broadening the sport’s base at a regional level. We look forward to strengthening women’s football in Japan through this collaboration.”