Bundesliga Returns to DAZN Japan with Exclusive Deal

Bundesliga and DAZN Japan Announce Landmark Partnership

The Bundesliga has made a major move to expand its reach in Asia by signing an exclusive three-year media rights agreement with DAZN Japan. Starting from the 2025-26 season and running through 2027-28, football fans in Japan will be able to watch every Bundesliga match live, marking the league’s return to DAZN Japan after an eight-year hiatus.

Details of the Exclusive Broadcast Agreement

Under the new contract, DAZN Japan will broadcast all nine fixtures from each of the Bundesliga’s 34 matchdays. The coverage also includes the prestigious Franz Beckenbauer Supercup, ensuring Japanese viewers won’t miss any of the action from Germany’s top football competition. The partnership is set to kick off on August 16, 2025, with the Supercup showdown between DFB-Pokal winners VfB Stuttgart and Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich. The regular Bundesliga season will commence on August 22, featuring a high-profile clash between Bayern Munich and RB Leipzig.

Japanese Talent Shines in German Football

This renewed partnership comes at a time when Japanese players are making a significant impact in German football. The summer 2025 transfer window saw ten Japanese players sign with clubs in the Bundesliga and Bundesliga 2, highlighting the growing connection between Japanese football and the German league. Among the most notable transfers are:

Hiroki Itō – The versatile defender has joined Bayern Munich, bringing his defensive prowess and experience to the reigning champions.
Ritsu Dōan – The dynamic midfielder has signed with Eintracht Frankfurt, adding creativity and attacking flair to their squad.
Yuito Suzuki – SC Freiburg has secured the services of this promising young talent, who is expected to make an immediate impact.
Borussia Mönchengladbach – The club has welcomed a trio of Japanese stars: Koki Machida, Shuto Machino, and Ko Itakura, further strengthening their lineup and deepening the Bundesliga’s ties with Japan.

The influx of Japanese players not only enhances the quality of the league but also increases interest among Japanese fans, making the DAZN Japan deal especially timely and relevant.

Comprehensive Coverage and Fan Engagement

DAZN Japan’s coverage will be comprehensive, offering live streams of every Bundesliga fixture, as well as highlights, analysis, and exclusive content tailored for Japanese audiences. The partnership aims to provide fans with an immersive viewing experience, ensuring they stay connected to their favorite teams and players throughout the season.

In addition to the broadcast agreement, the Bundesliga is planning a series of fan engagement initiatives in Japan. During Expo 2025 in Osaka, the league will host live screenings and special events, featuring appearances by Japanese football legend Makoto Hasebe. These activities are designed to bring fans closer to the action and celebrate the growing bond between German and Japanese football.

Strategic Importance of the Japanese Market

The Bundesliga’s renewed focus on Japan is a strategic move, reflecting the country’s status as one of the most passionate football markets in Asia. With a strong tradition of supporting both domestic and international football, Japanese fans have long followed the Bundesliga, especially as more of their compatriots succeed in Germany.

The exclusive deal with DAZN Japan is expected to further boost the league’s popularity, providing fans with easy access to high-quality broadcasts and in-depth coverage. It also reinforces the Bundesliga’s commitment to supporting Japanese players and fostering international collaboration in football.

What This Means for Fans

For Japanese football enthusiasts, the new agreement means unprecedented access to live Bundesliga action. Whether following the fortunes of Japanese stars or supporting traditional German powerhouses like Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund, fans will be able to enjoy every moment of the season from the comfort of their homes.

The partnership also promises to deliver more than just live matches. With DAZN Japan’s expertise in sports broadcasting, viewers can expect detailed match analysis, behind-the-scenes features, and interactive content that deepens their connection to the league.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Bundesliga in Japan

The Bundesliga’s return to DAZN Japan signals the start of a new chapter in the league’s relationship with Japanese fans. By combining top-tier football with innovative fan engagement and a strong presence at major events like Expo 2025, the Bundesliga is poised to become even more popular in Japan over the next three years.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, anticipation is building among fans eager to see how Japanese players will perform on the German stage and how the partnership with DAZN Japan will enhance their viewing experience. With exclusive coverage, special events, and a growing roster of Japanese talent, the Bundesliga is set to capture the hearts of football fans across Japan.

Sources:
Bundesliga.com
DAZN Japan News