Yuichi Nishimura Announces Retirement from Football Officiating
Renowned Japanese referee Yuichi Nishimura has retired after a storied career that included officiating in two FIFA World Cups and over 400 matches in the J-League.
Yuichi Nishimura, one of the most distinguished referees in Japanese football history, has officially retired from officiating. The 52-year-old announced his decision during a press conference, reflecting on a career that spanned decades and included numerous high-profile assignments on the global stage.
Nishimura, who officiated over 407 matches in the J-League, gained international recognition for his work in the 2010 and 2014 FIFA World Cups. Notably, he became the first Japanese referee to oversee the opening match of a World Cup when Brazil played Croatia in 2014.
During the press conference, Nishimura expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had in his career. "Being on the pitch with world-class players and witnessing their brilliance up close has been the highlight of my journey," he said. He also emphasized the support he received from coaches and football organizations throughout his career.
Looking ahead, Nishimura announced that he would take on a new role as the head of the J-League Refereeing Department starting next year. "Although my time as a referee has come to an end, I will continue to contribute to football through this new chapter," he stated.
As Nishimura steps away from active refereeing, he leaves behind a legacy of professionalism and excellence, serving as an inspiration for aspiring referees worldwide.