Nagashima Ohno & Tsunematsu's team advises international athletes, sports teams, and event organisers, amongst others, on the broad range of sports matters, from sponsorship deals to stadium development projects. Takashi Itokawa routinely represents athletes on team affiliations, while Shiro Kato specialises in international cases, regularly negotiating sponsorship agreements for both corporate and sports organisations. The pair spearhead the group.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Accolades
Client satisfaction: Lawyer & team quality
Client satisfaction: Sector knowledge
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘They have extensive experience engaging with various major sports from multiple perspectives, enabling them to provide high-quality legal services efficiently. Their ability to identify issues, offer insightful proposals, and suggest improvements in contract structures and business schemes is both precise and appropriate. They are a reliable partner, offering reassurance through their proactive support and guidance.’
‘Shiro Kato handles both complex negotiations and a high volume of contract matters with calm efficiency and speed. He provides precise and relevant background information, making him an extremely reliable asset for moving projects forward.’
‘They are well-versed in the customs and practices of the Japanese sports business world and primarily provide legal advice from the perspective of sponsor companies when entering into sponsorship agreements with sports teams or leagues. Their expertise in corporate law allows them to accurately suggest the viewpoints that companies should recognise, contributing to the prevention of contractual disadvantages. Additionally, their response to client requests is very prompt.’
‘Shiro Kato is calm and composed, able to view matters from a broad perspective and suggest various possibilities. His calm demeanour and tone, combined with his ability to provide clear explanations, earn him the trust of clients as a professional.’
'With a wide variety of experts, the firm can assemble a team tailored to each case. They also offer a fast and flexible response.'
- 'Takashi Itokawa can handle a wide range of cases and offers fast and flexible responses.'
Work highlights
Advised the client on the transfer of NTT Sports Community Co., Ltd., the management company for Omiya Arjida (a J. League football club) to Red Bull GmbH.
Advised the client and his management company, Agon Management, on his team affiliation for the upcoming and future seasons.
Advised the client on the share transfer of the management company for HOKKAIDO YELLOW STARS (a V. League Volleyball club) to TakedaGead Co., Ltd.
Lawyers
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Practice head
Takashi Itokawa; Shiro Kato