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An ordinance approving a host city agreement between the Metropolitan Government and the Japan Football Association.
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WHEREAS, the FIFA World Cup soccer tournament will be held during the summer of 2026, with matches to be played in the United States, Canada, and Mexico; and,
WHEREAS, Japan’s national soccer team (the “Team”) will be competing in the tournament, and the Japan Football Association has selected Nashville as the location for the Team to live and train during the tournament; and,
WHEREAS, the agreement (the “Agreement”) attached to this ordinance as Exhibit 1 sets forth the rights, duties, and obligations of the Metropolitan Government and the Japan Football Association with respect to hosting the Team during the tournament; and,
WHEREAS, hosting the Team will provide Nashville with new cultural and recreational benefits; and,
WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the citizens of Nashville and Davidson County to approve the Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ENACTED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. The Agreement (Exhibit 1) is hereby approved, and the appropriate Metropolitan Government officials are authorized to execute and deliver it.
Section 2. Amendments to the Agreement may be authorized by resolution of the Metropolitan Council.
Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of the Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.
Agenda Analysis
Analysis
This ordinance approves a host city agreement between the Metropolitan Government (“Metro”) and the Japan Football Association. The agreement would allow the Japan National Football Team to use Nashville and Davidson County as its team base camp and training site for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The agreement takes effect when officials from the Japan Football Association have counter-signed the contract. The agreement term ends on December 31, 2026.
This agreement would require Metro to support necessary event transportation and parking measures. This would include appropriate directional signage, parking spaces, permits, and entry and exits of transport into any team base camp, parking areas, and other competition-related areas. Metro may also provide dressing, signage, and outdoor media space to promote the FIFA World Cup.
Metro shall prepare and implement a safety and security plan in collaboration with FIFA and shall assist in providing all police escorts for the Japanese team. Metro shall also ensure reasonable fire and medical service measures are made and provide any necessary permits, concessions, and licenses necessary for temporary facilities. Metro shall be responsible for all costs and expenses to fulfill its obligations.
The Japan Football Association may terminate this agreement at any time. Metro would waive all claims of liability against the Japan Football Association, FIFA, and FIFA26, Inc. for any loss or damages or personal or property losses that may have been caused or resulted from negligence.