Former AC Milan midfielder and Japanese international Keisuke Honda has revealed that a potential sponsorship agreement with a U.S. company was paused after he publicly supported Iran’s participation in the FIFA World Cup.
The Japanese international made the claim on social media, saying his comments about allowing Iran to compete in the tournament led to the sudden halt of a planned advertising deal.
Honda, one of the most recognizable figures in Asian football, expressed his personal view that political tensions should not prevent athletes from competing on the global stage.
“I know it’s very sensitive thing but I personally want them participate the World Cup,” tweeted Honda.
The statement quickly sparked debate online, given the complex political circumstances surrounding Iran’s participation in international events.
According to Honda, the reaction from one potential sponsor was immediate.
The former Japan star suggested the company decided to delay an advertising agreement that had been close to completion ahead of the tournament.
“It seems that an ad from a U.S. company, which was likely to be finalized in time for the World Cup, has been put on hold due to this statement.”
Despite the setback, Honda made it clear that he stands by his position and criticized companies that make decisions without considering broader principles.
“Companies that ignore the essence and make rotten decisions – we’re better off without them.”
Honda remains one of Japan’s most decorated footballers of the modern era. During his international career, he earned nearly 100 caps for Japan national football team and became the first Japanese player to score at three different World Cups: in 2010, 2014 and 2018.
At club level, the attacking midfielder enjoyed successful spells across Europe, including time with AC Milan and Russian giants CSKA Moscow.
His performances on the global stage helped raise the profile of Japanese football during the 2010s.
Since stepping away from top-level football, Honda has expanded his career into coaching, management and business investments while remaining an outspoken voice on football and global issues.
His latest remarks underline the complex intersection between sports, politics and commercial partnerships, particularly in a tournament as globally significant as the FIFA World Cup.
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