From Vietnam★ Applying J.League Experience to Professional Soccer

Chairman Tanaka Takes on Reforming Vietnam's V-League

Mr. Takashi Tanaka, former coach of the Japan U-20 national team and Nagoya Grampus, has been appointed Chairman of the Organizing Committee for this year's Vietnam Professional Soccer League (V-League) tournament, the "Eximbank V-League 2014." His one-year term begins in February. He aims to enhance the V-League's commercial value to attract Japanese corporate sponsors. NNA, which distributes Asian economic information, interviewed him about the current situation and his goals.

The V-League operates with 13 teams, many of which are owned by large corporations. Unlike in Japan, where operations are often community-based, the league is vulnerable to economic fluctuations. The current reality includes teams disbanding due to sponsor withdrawals. Challenges are diverse, ranging from improving facilities like stadiums, ensuring safe and timely match execution, to enforcing fair play. Chairman Tanaka explained his decision, stating he felt a passion among the Vietnamese to "learn from Japan's top-class soccer in Asia."

Amid Vietnam's economic stagnation, expectations are high for securing sponsorships from Japanese companies. Chairman Tanaka stated, "It's crucial to highlight the benefits for companies. Japanese firms consider support from a cost-effectiveness perspective. Beyond individual club sponsorships, the ideal would be partnerships with the entire league to support stadium renovations and player development. We want to explore such sponsorship frameworks."

Professional soccer leagues in Thailand and Indonesia have achieved success. Chairman Tanaka pointed out, "It's crucial for Vietnam's soccer stakeholders themselves to show the determination to 'do it too,' building the objective data needed to attract sponsors while competing with neighboring countries."