title
A Resolution welcoming the Japan National Men's Soccer Team to Nashville and recognizing the friendship between Nashville, Japan, and the Japanese American community.
body
WHEREAS, the FIFA World Cup is the world's most celebrated sporting event, bringing together nations, cultures, and communities through the universal language of soccer; and
WHEREAS, Nashville is honored to serve as a home base for the Japan National Men's Soccer Team while they compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and to welcome Japanese visitors and supporters from around the globe; and
WHEREAS, the Japan National Men's Soccer Team, known internationally as the Samurai Blue, has earned worldwide respect through its discipline, sportsmanship, and consistent success on the international stage; and
WHEREAS, Japan is one of the most successful soccer nations in Asia, having qualified for eight consecutive FIFA World Cup tournaments since 1998 and inspiring generations of athletes and fans through its commitment to excellence, teamwork, and perseverance; and
WHEREAS, the Japan National Men's Soccer Team has advanced to the Round of 16 on four occasions, earning international admiration for its skillful play, resilience, and competitive spirit on the world's biggest stage; and
WHEREAS, during the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Japan captured global attention by defeating both Germany and Spain in group-stage competition, demonstrating its ability to compete with and defeat some of the world's most accomplished soccer programs; and
WHEREAS, Japanese supporters are recognized around the world for their exceptional sportsmanship, respect, and civic pride, often leaving stadiums cleaner than they found them and serving as ambassadors of goodwill wherever they travel; and
WHEREAS, Japan and the United States share a longstanding partnership rooted in friendship, cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and mutual respect; and
WHEREAS, Tennessee and Japan share a strong and mutually beneficial relationship, with Japanese companies employing thousands of Tennesseans and contributing significantly to the state's economic growth, innovation, and international partnerships; and
WHEREAS, Nashville has developed meaningful ties with Japan through educational exchanges, business investment, tourism, cultural programs, and people-to-people relationships that strengthen understanding between our communities; and
WHEREAS, Nashville celebrates the enduring sister city relationship between Nashville and Kamakura and recognizes the contributions of Nashville's Japanese and Japanese American communities in strengthening cultural understanding, economic cooperation, and international goodwill; and
WHEREAS, Nashville is home to a vibrant Japanese community whose contributions enrich the cultural, educational, and economic life of our city; and
WHEREAS, the presence of the Japan National Men's Soccer Team in Nashville hosting an Open Training session provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the beautiful game, cultural exchange, and the spirit of global competition; and
WHEREAS, the Metropolitan Council wishes to extend a warm Southern welcome to the players, coaches, staff, families, supporters, and all visitors accompanying the Japan National Men's Soccer Team during their stay in Nashville.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as welcoming the Japan National Men's Soccer Team to Nashville and extends its best wishes for a successful and memorable FIFA World Cup experience.
Section 2. The Metropolitan Council further encourages residents and visitors alike to embrace the spirit of hospitality, sportsmanship, and cultural exchange that the FIFA World Cup brings to Nashville and to join in welcoming the Japan National Men's Soccer Team and its supporters to Music City.
Section 3. This Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.