NHK Announces Commentators for 'FIFA World Cup 2026' Broadcasts

With less than a month to go until the start of the 'FIFA World Cup 2026',

NHK will broadcast a month of intense matches, including the highly anticipated Japan games, across terrestrial, BS, and BSP4K channels. We are pleased to announce the star-studded lineup of commentators who will strongly support these broadcasts.

Providing commentary for all Japan matches on NHK (terrestrial)

Keisuke Honda: 3 World Cup appearances (2010 South Africa, 2014 Brazil, 2018 Russia)

<Comment from Keisuke Honda>

"I'm back. It will be my first time commentating in four years. I had decided not to do it anymore, but as the World Cup approached, my mind gradually changed, and I felt the desire to try it just one more time. This is how I came to do it again. I look forward to your support during the World Cup!"

Appearing in match broadcasts and daily highlights

Takashi Fukunishi: World Cup appearances (2002 Japan-Korea, 2006 Germany)

Ryuzo Morioka: World Cup appearance (2002 Japan-Korea)

Yoichiro Kakitani: World Cup appearance (2014 Brazil)

Ryuji Bando: Former Japan national team player, played for Gamba Osaka, Vissel Kobe, etc.

Masami Ihara: World Cup appearance (1998 France)

Ryohei Hayashi: Played for Tokyo Verdy, Kashiwa Reysol, etc.

First Round Japan Match Broadcast Schedule (*All in Japan Standard Time)

June 15 (Mon) General TV, from 5:00 AM vs. Netherlands

June 21 (Sun) BS, from 1:00 PM vs. Tunisia

June 26 (Fri) General TV, from 8:00 AM vs. Sweden