Photo courtesy of Genuine Cup
HOUSTON, Texas - The Japan-America Society of Houston (JASH) was proud to support Yokohama F. Marinos Futuro throughout their journey at the 2026 Genuine Cup, an international soccer tournament that brought athletes, teams, and supporters from around the world together in Houston.
Held from July 27 through August 1 at Rice Stadium at Rice University, the Genuine Cup brought together more than 1,000 athletes from across the globe, with teams representing 54 countries. Hosted by the Genuine Foundation, the tournament promotes inclusion, visibility, and opportunity for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism, while celebrating the values of respect, fair play, teamwork, and friendship.
Representing Japan, Yokohama F. Marinos Futuro displayed tremendous perseverance and unity from the opening match through the final whistle. The team’s performance reflected the spirit of the Genuine Cup, inspiring spectators and supporters both on and off the field.
JASH was especially proud to celebrate Yokohama F. Marinos Futuro for earning third place in the tournament. The team was also honored with one of only five Genuine Awards, recognizing the players for embodying the values at the heart of the tournament: respect, inclusion, fair play, and team spirit.
The Genuine Award highlighted what made the team’s journey particularly meaningful. Beyond the results on the field, Yokohama F. Marinos Futuro demonstrated the importance of supporting one another, competing with respect, and creating an environment where every athlete has the opportunity to participate and succeed.
The tournament also served as a meaningful opportunity for cultural exchange between Japan, the United States, and the many countries represented at the Genuine Cup. With athletes and supporters coming together in Houston, the event demonstrated how international sports can create lasting friendships and foster greater mutual understanding.
JASH extends its congratulations to Yokohama F. Marinos Futuro on their third-place finish and Genuine Award, and its appreciation to the players, coaches, supporters, organizers, and volunteers who made the tournament possible. We look forward to cheering them on again in the future.
