Keisuke Honda Believes Japan Can Win 2026 World Cup

Japan football star Keisuke Honda has expressed confidence in his country’s chances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that the team has the potential to reach the semifinals or even win the tournament. Honda, who earned 90 caps for Japan and played in three World Cups, shared his thoughts at the AVCJ Private Equity Forum in Hong Kong.

Honda emphasized that Japan’s national team has strong players and the ability to compete with the best teams in the world. He said, “They have the potential to become at least the best four in the World Cup next year, maybe champion. There is nothing impossible, and they have a lot of good players now so I hope they are going to make it.”

Japan has already secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. In the previous World Cup in Qatar in 2022, Japan made headlines by defeating major European teams such as Spain and Germany to reach the Round of 16, demonstrating their growing competitiveness on the global stage.

Honda, 39, is widely regarded as one of Japan’s most successful footballers in the early 2000s. He played for top clubs in multiple countries, including AC Milan in Italy’s Serie A. His international career included participation in three World Cups, where he contributed to Japan’s rise in global football recognition.

Beyond his playing career, Honda is also a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist. He co-founded X&KSK, a Japan-focused investment firm, and raised about 15.3 billion yen in its first fund earlier this year. The firm focuses on supporting startups in sectors such as technology, consumer products, and biotech. Honda also co-founded Dreamers VC in the United States with American actor Will Smith.

Despite shifting his focus to business, Honda has not given up on his football dreams. He revealed that his future goals include becoming one of the best football coaches in the world and potentially leading Japan to a World Cup championship as a coach. He said, “My dreams are two things now, to be the best investor in the world and the best coach in the world, which means becoming a champion of the World Cup as a coach.”

Honda’s remarks highlight his belief in Japan’s football development and the country’s potential to succeed on the world stage. He stressed the importance of teamwork, talent development, and strong leadership within the squad. With a talented generation of players and growing experience in international competitions, Japan aims to make a significant impact at the 2026 tournament.

Fans and football analysts have welcomed Honda’s optimism, noting that Japan’s progress in the last few World Cups indicates steady improvement. Honda’s guidance and potential future involvement as a coach could further strengthen the team’s prospects.

Honda’s vision reflects both confidence in the current Japanese squad and his personal ambition to contribute to football as a player, coach, and mentor. His dual focus on business and football illustrates a dedication to excellence both on and off the pitch.