Kaoru Mitoma Involved in Traffic Accident in Tokyo, Cyclist Injured

TOKYO, July 8 (CNA) -- Japanese national football player Kaoru Mitoma was involved in a traffic accident this morning in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo. His car collided with a bicycle at an intersection, causing minor injuries to a woman in her 40s. Police suspect that Mitoma's vehicle may have run a red light, and are currently investigating the cause of the accident.

According to police sources cited by NHK, the accident occurred around 8:30 AM at a crossroad approximately 400 meters north of Itabashi-Honcho Station on the Toei Mita Line in Itabashi Ward, Tokyo. Mitoma's car collided with a woman in her 40s who was riding a bicycle. The woman sustained minor injuries, diagnosed as bruises, and was taken to the hospital. Mitoma himself was not injured.

Police stated that based on the scene and investigation findings, they preliminarily believe that Mitoma's vehicle entered the intersection while the traffic light was red, leading to the accident. The detailed cause of the accident is still under further clarification.

Following the accident, Mitoma's management agency issued a statement apologizing for the trouble and concern caused to the injured party and related individuals.

The statement indicated that Mitoma deeply regrets the incident and is continuing to handle related matters with the intention of offering his condolences and apologies to the victim. The agency will fully cooperate with the relevant authorities' investigation and will strengthen traffic safety awareness and legal compliance education to prevent similar incidents from occurring again.

Mitoma, 29, hails from Kanagawa Prefecture and graduated from the University of Tsukuba. He currently plays for Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League and is known for his exceptional dribbling and breakthrough abilities. Although he was unable to be selected for the 2026 World Cup Japanese national team due to injury, his classic assist from the byline in the 2022 Qatar World Cup match against Spain, which helped secure the winning goal and was dubbed "Mitoma's 1 millimeter," is considered a classic moment in World Cup history and helped Japan advance to the knockout stage. (Editor: Wei Shu) 1150708

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