Introducing Japan's First Corporate-Funded Surf Team: The Seven x Seven Surf Team

A New Era for Surfing in Japan: The Seven x Seven Surf Team

In a groundbreaking move for Japanese sports, FHG HOTELS, a part of the Kasumigaseki Capital Group, has announced the launch of the Seven x Seven Surf Team. Based in Ichinomiya, Chiba, this is Japan's very first corporate-sponsored surfing team, marking a significant shift in the way surfing talent is nurtured and promoted in the country.

The Seven x Seven Surf Team is on a mission to not just excel in surfing competitions but aims to build a completely new sports model that integrates competitive performance, athlete development, and business strategy, all while focusing on winning medals at the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Olympics.

The Need for a Team Structure in Surfing

Historically, surfing has been a sport largely dependent on individual talent. Athletes often struggle with the burden of finding sponsors, training opportunities, and funding for international competitions. This has prevented many talented surfers from pursuing their dreams adequately. The Seven x Seven Surf Team aims to address this issue through a team-based support system combined with innovative content development.

The initiative plans to streamline competition support with resources that cover overseas training expenses, athlete development programs, and ongoing sponsorship. Additionally, the team intends to broaden its reach by creating valuable content that showcases their journey and achievements.

A Brand-New Sports Model

Unlike conventional sports teams, the Seven x Seven initiative is not just about enhancing performance. Its vision revolves around creating a new sports Intellectual Property (IP) that integrates competitive sports, engaging content, and viable business strategies. The project strives not only for athletic excellence but aims at establishing a sustainable sports business.

Plans for the Future

The organization's two-pronged approach includes:
1. Surf Team Operations: Comprehensive support for athletes including competition funding and business endorsements to ensure continuous participation in events.
2. Next Generation Talent Discovery: The launch of the audition show 'BLUE MONSTER – The Blue Monster of the Sea' to showcase the selection process of surfers. This project aims to highlight not just competitive skills but also the personalities, narratives, and engagement levels of potential athletes.

During the selection process, approximately 15 applicants will be shortlisted, leading to a final selection of 7 competitors. With a thrilling survival format, episodes will be released on YouTube, allowing a wider audience to engage with the journey of these athletes.

Special Judges

The show will feature esteemed judges:

- Kazuki Kitajima, an Olympic gold medalist swimmer.
- Connor O’Leary, a champion of the World Surf League Championship Tour.

The culmination of this endeavor will be an event where all details about the team, business strategy, and the audition program will be disclosed. This is an opportunity for everyone to witness the intersection of sports, entertainment, and business innovation.

Announcement Event Details

Date: May 14, 2026
Venue: 109 Cinemas Premium Shinjuku, Theater 3
Agenda Includes:

- Team concept and business plan presentations
- Overview of the audition program
- Special judges’ discussions
- Q&A session
- Presentation of uniforms and wetsuits
- Partnership opportunities

Call for Participation and Coverage

For those interested in attending or covering the event:

- Visit Event Details
- Contact us via email at [email protected]

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Team Overview

Team Name: Seven x Seven Surf Team
Location: 7416-2 Higashirami, Ichinomiya, Chiba
CEO: Yuji Nakanishi

For more inquiries regarding this project, please contact the public relations team at seven x seven Surf Team:

- E-mail: [email protected]
- Phone: 090-5342-9523

This exciting initiative is set to transform the landscape of surfing and athlete development in Japan. Join us on this journey as we dive into new horizons!