Exciting Details on the 79th Rice Bowl by GA Technologies
The upcoming 79th Rice Bowl, known formally as the American Football Japan Championship, is set to showcase the pinnacle of American football in Japan, and it's bringing new excitement thanks to innovative sponsorship from GA Technologies. This year's tournament promises to be a memorable event, integrating state-of-the-art technology into the fabric of American football.
Overview of the Tournament
The Rice Bowl will take place on January 3, 2026, at the iconic Tokyo Dome in Bunkyo, Tokyo, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 (doors open at 13:00). This year's event is organized by the Japan American Football Association alongside the Japan Society of American Football, and it will feature a halftime show packed with entertainment, details of which will be announced soon.
The competition is more intense than ever, as the X League's playoffs, the Rice Bowl Tournament, kicked off on November 23, 2025. The semi-finals have already seen the top four teams—Panasonic Impulse, Obic Seagulls, Fujitsu Frontiers, and Tokyo Gas Creators—making their mark and advancing to this prestigious national championship event.
Highlights of the Semi-finals and Matchup
With the semi-finals already creating buzz, a highly anticipated matchup between Panasonic and Fujitsu adds to the excitement. These teams are no strangers to each other, having faced off in the Rice Bowl over the last four years. The semi-finals will take place on December 13 in Osaka’s Yanmar Stadium Nagai and on December 14 in Kawasaki’s Uvance Todoroki Stadium, and fans are eagerly awaiting these critical matches that will determine who will compete for the championship title.
Special Features and Sponsorship
This year, GA Technologies stands out as the special sponsor for the championship, emphasizing their commitment to integrating technology into various industries, including real estate and M&A. Their involvement marks a new chapter for the Rice Bowl, showcasing how sports can benefit from advancements in technology.
In addition to an exhilarating football showdown, the event will not leave fans disappointed during halftime, as the show promises to be enhanced from previous years. Announcements regarding the performing artists are expected soon, so stay tuned!
Tournament Details
Event Name
The official name of the event is "American Football Japan Championship 79th Rice Bowl by GA Technologies".
Date and Time
Kick-off: January 3, 2026, at 15:00 (Doors open at 13:00).
Venue
Location: Tokyo Dome, 1-3-61 Korakuen, Bunkyo, Tokyo.
Collaboration and Support
The event is backed by major organizations, including the Japan Sports Agency, the U.S. Embassy in Japan, Nikkan Sports Holdings, and Yomiuri Shimbun.
Match Format
The game will consist of four quarters, each lasting 15 minutes, with a halftime break of 30 minutes. If a tie occurs at the end of the fourth quarter, the game will utilize a tiebreak system for overtime.
Broadcasting
Fans can catch the live broadcast on NHK-BS from 15:00 until the end of the match. For those who want to watch later, the game will also be available on X League TV via Amefu Live.
Ticket Information
Tickets went on sale on November 25, with premium party box seats becoming available on December 1. Ensure you grab your tickets early to witness this monumental sporting event.
For ticket purchases and more details, access
the X League ticket site.
Conclusion
The 79th Rice Bowl is poised to be an unforgettable celebration of American football, combining thrilling competition with technological innovation and entertainment. Mark your calendars and prepare for an exciting experience in January 2026!