One Piece’s Eiichiro Oda Illustrates Special Shonen Jump Cover to Support Japan’s Football World Cup Team
One Piece has launched a major promotional campaign alongside the Japan Men’s National Football Team in honor of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026.
This extensive joint venture alongside the SAMURAI BLUE squad officially began on Monday, May 25, 2026.
The launch was celebrated with an exclusive illustration by series creator Eiichiro Oda that serves as the cover art for the 26th issue of Weekly Shonen Jump.
This unique artwork features the iconic pirate captain Luffy clutching a soccer ball whilst wearing a custom blue straw hat.
On May 29, it was revealed that every member of the national squad received a real-life replica of this blue straw hat.
To accompany the gifting of these hats, Oda shared an emotional message on social media that draws parallels between the ambitions of his characters and the goals of the football team.
“Companions gather around a serious dream.”
“When you talk about your dreams, people laugh.”
“Even more so if you set a goal of being the best in the world.”
“But that’s okay.”
“Those aiming to be the best in the world will attract companions who also aim to be the best in the world.”
“You will find companions who support you instead of laughing at your dreams.”
“That is why we at ONE PIECE will never laugh at the dream of the Japan National Football Team.”
“Because we truly believe in the day that Japan becomes the king of the world.”
“Let’s go!! To our highest peak.”
Readers who purchase the 26th issue of Weekly Shonen Jump will find a physical paper flag included as a special bonus to help cheer on the team.
Fans can also participate online by applying a complimentary “Blue Straw Hat” frame to their social media profiles via the ONE PIECE BASE app.
Tsuneyasu Miyamoto, President of the Japan Football Association, publicly praised the joint effort and highlighted how both properties deliver courage and hope to people worldwide.
He pointed out that the central themes of trusting your friends and battling through adversity mirror the SAMURAI BLUE squad’s ongoing quest for international glory.
President Miyamoto added that he hopes this partnership will effectively showcase the team’s unwavering determination ahead of the massive global tournament.
Supporters can expect even more football-focused content to arrive in upcoming issues of Weekly Shonen Jump.
The 27th issue is scheduled to hit store shelves on Monday, June 1, 2026, and will contain an exclusive interview with Manager Hajime Moriyasu and key players.
This will be followed by the 28th issue on Monday, June 8, 2026, which promises additional player interviews as well as tournament commentary from soccer-loving manga authors.
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