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When the J.League was formed, in 1993, there were just ten teams: Kashima Antlers, Urawa Reds, JEF United Ichihara, Verdy Kawasaki, Yokohama Marinos, Yokohama Flugels, Shimizu S-Pulse, Nagoya Grampus, Gamba Osaka, and Sanfrecce Hiroshima. However, the league grew rapidly during the first few seasons, due to strong interest from the public and the desire of many local company teams to cash in on the J.League's success. By 1998 there were18 teams in the league. At that point, the J.League decided to add a second division (J2), and the number of teams in its top division was reduced to 16.
Thus, in 1999, the league adopted its current, two-division structure. The league remained stable for the next five years, gaining steadily in polularity. By 2004 it was apparent that the league was once again in a position to expand, so the number of teams was once again changed. The J1 expanded to 18 teams for the 2005 season, while the J2 began with 12 teams in 2005 and is expected to eventually expand to 22. Once the league reaches that level, a third division may be added.
The 18 teams listed on the right will take part in the J.League first division (J1) during the 2008 season. If you click on the icon for each team, the link will take you to a page with detailed information on that team, as well as a team schedule, a player roster, and past historical data.
For information on teams in the J.League second division (J2), Click Here.
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