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Welcome, dear friends!
Come with me - together let us cross the threshold and be transported back to the dazzling spectacle of football that was the 2002 FIFA World CupTM! The drama, the thrills, the emotion and all of the excitement of the "World Cup of Smiles" will live on forever right here at the 2002 FIFA World CupTM Memorial Japan Football Museum.
Brazil's dramatic triumph over Germany; favourite France's surprising early exit; Japan's first foray beyond the group stage; Korea Republic and Turkey's historic drive to the semi-finals - these represent but a few of the captivating threads that form the rich tapestry of the first FIFA World CupTM held in Asia, now preserved for posterity thanks to our dear friends at the Japan Football Association.
However, there is far more to the story 2002 FIFA World CupTM than just what occurred on the field. Equally impressive were the tireless efforts put forth by the two host countries' organising committees - together, JAWOC and KOWOC demonstrated a solidarity never seen before, silencing the critics who claimed that such co-hosting could not be done, let alone by two countries who shared a troubled past. Standing in union, we proved them all wrong, clearly illustrating one of the greatest powers of football - its ability to bring people together, no matter what their differences. When we stand as one, no task is too great, no challenge is insurmountable, no height is unreachable. From their gracious hospitality to their tremendous performances on the pitch, the two hosts left an indelible mark in the hearts and minds of football fans around the world, and have also cemented a new legacy of football in Asia that is certain to bear fruit for years to come.
The 2002 FIFA World CupTM Memorial Japan Football Museum will not only serve to keep the memories of the tournament bright and vivid for those who experienced the joy first hand, but will also certainly provide inspiration for generations of footballers to come here in Japan, and across the globe as well.
This is to be the true legacy of The 2002 FIFA World CupTM Memorial Japan Football Museum. On behalf of FIFA and the entire football family, I would like to thank Saburo Kawabuchi, President of the Japan Football Association, and Shoh Nasu, Chairman of JAWOC, for their efforts in bringing this vision to reality.
Welcome to the 2002 FIFA World CupTM Memorial Japan Football Museum - may it inspire you to reach new heights both on and off the field, for the Good of the Game.
Joseph S. Blatter FIFA President  |
