Emerging
Published Jun 25, 2026Updated Jun 25 Major3
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Kazuyoshi Miura Extends Loan at Fukushima United, Set to Become Japan's First 60-Year-Old J-League Player
Kazuyoshi Miura extended his loan from Yokohama FC to J3 club Fukushima United through June 2027. The 59-year-old striker will become the first J-League player to compete at age 60 when he turns 60 in February 2027, a milestone reflecting both his remarkable longevity and the J-League's transition to a new calendar system.
Quick Facts
- Loan extension announced
- Period extended to June 30, 2027
- Player to become first 60-year-old J-League player
- Made 6 appearances in 2025-26 season
- Contributed to record attendance figures
J2 club Yokohama FC announced on June 25, 2026, that striker Kazuyoshi Miura has extended his loan at J3 side Fukushima United FC through June 30, 2027. The 59-year-old forward will turn 60 on February 26, 2027, making him the first player to appear in the J-League as a sexagenarian in the new autumn-spring calendar system.
Miura made six appearances for Fukushima during the 2025-26 season, starting in four matches without scoring. Despite limited goal-scoring output, he significantly contributed to the club's record-setting attendance figures. The announcement came at 11 o'clock, matching his iconic jersey number, and precedes Fukushima's team resumption scheduled for June 26.
In his statement, Miura expressed commitment to both clubs: "I have decided to continue my challenge at Fukushima United FC. With unwavering passion, I will do my utmost in daily training to contribute to the team's J2 promotion. Let us all share in the joy together." He also pledged his support for Yokohama FC's success and progress.
Miura's career has spanned three decades and multiple continents. Since joining Yokohama FC in 2005, he has become a symbol of longevity in professional football. His continued participation at the highest domestic levels demonstrates his enduring competitive spirit. Fukushima confirmed that Miura will rejoin the squad on or after July 3.
With the J-League's transition to an August start date, Miura is positioned to potentially achieve another milestone as the league's oldest goal scorer. His presence adds considerable interest to Fukushima's pursuit of promotion to J2.
Why This Matters
Miura's milestone achievement demonstrates that professional football has no hard age ceiling and challenges conventional retirement norms in elite sports. For fans and younger athletes, his continued competition at the highest domestic level in Japan provides an inspiring narrative about dedication, fitness maintenance, and passion transcending decades. For the J-League and Fukushima United, his presence drives media interest and attendance while strengthening the club's push for J2 promotion.
Timeline & Sources
Feb 26, 1967
WireKazuyoshi Miura born
Jan 1, 2005
WireMiura joined Yokohama FC
Jun 25, 2026
WireLoan extension to Fukushima United announced through June 30, 2027
Jul 3, 2026
WireMiura scheduled to rejoin Fukushima training
Feb 26, 2027
WireMiura turns 60, becomes first sexagenarian J-League player