Thu Sep 19 06:56:04 UTC 2024: ## Honda Rugby Team Moves Base to Tochigi, Strengthens Regional Ties in Mie
**TOKYO, Sept 19, 2024** – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that its rugby team, the MIE Honda HEAT, will relocate its base of operations from Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture to Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, starting from the 2026-2027 season. The team will primarily utilize Tochigi Green Stadium.
The MIE Honda HEAT, founded in 1961, has enjoyed strong support from the Suzuka community for over 60 years. Last year, the team transitioned its affiliation from the Suzuka Factory to the Honda Head Office to further strengthen its activities and expand its fan base. Now, competing in the top division of the Japan Rugby League One, the team aims to become the No. 1 team in Japan within three years.
While relocating its base, the team will continue to engage with the Mie community through rugby-related activities, including matches and scrimmages. Honda will also enter into a comprehensive regional cooperation agreement with Suzuka City, focusing on sports and community development, including youth development and enhancing local health and athleticism. This agreement will support not just rugby, but also other sports like baseball.
Honda’s vision for its sports activities is to inspire more people to pursue challenges through sports and create a more enjoyable life for everyone. The company continues to support athletes who strive to achieve their dreams, as evidenced by its commitment to the MIE Honda HEAT and the new agreement with Suzuka City.
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