FC Barcelona Announces 2025 Preseason Tour to Asia After Six Years

In a significant move, FC Barcelona has confirmed its return to Asia for the 2025/26 preseason after a six-year hiatus. The team will embark on a tour that includes a friendly match against Vissel Kobe in Japan on July 27, followed by games against FC Seoul and Daegu FC in South Korea on July 31 and August 4, respectively. This tour marks the club's seventh preseason visit to the Asian continent, a region where it enjoys a robust fanbase and significant commercial partnerships.

The announcement was made public by FC Barcelona through its official channels, stating that the team will prepare for the upcoming season by engaging with local teams, which is expected to enhance the club's visibility and strengthen its ties with fans in Asia. FC Barcelona’s head coach, Hansi Flick, is set to lead the team during this tour, emphasizing the importance of international exposure and fan engagement as part of the club's broader strategy.

Historically, the blaugranes have maintained a strong presence in Asia, last touring the region in 2019 under then-coach Ernesto Valverde. During that tour, they played against Chelsea FC and Vissel Kobe, winning both matches. The upcoming tour signals a renewed commitment to maintaining and expanding the club's influence in a market that boasts millions of supporters.

The match against Vissel Kobe, scheduled for 7 PM local time (12 PM CEST), will take place at the Noevir Kobe Stadium, which has a capacity of 30,000 spectators. This encounter is particularly notable as it will be the third meeting between the two clubs, with Barcelona having won both previous encounters.

Following the match in Japan, Barcelona will travel to South Korea, where they will face FC Seoul at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on July 31 and conclude their tour against Daegu FC at the Daegu Stadium on August 4. Both locations have historical significance, having hosted matches during the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

FC Barcelona's decision to tour Asia stems from the club's recognition of the region's growing importance in global football. According to a 2023 study by GWI, the club has approximately 3.6 million fans in Japan and 2.3 million fans in South Korea, placing them among the top supporting nations. The club also maintains strong commercial relationships with local brands, including partnerships with Konami in Japan and SK Enmove in South Korea.

Moreover, FC Barcelona has established six academies across Japan, fostering local talent and building a community of young fans. This initiative aligns with the club’s goal of nurturing future generations of players and supporters.

As the club prepares for its upcoming matches, it anticipates significant media coverage and fan engagement, further solidifying its status as a leading club in international football. The tour, branded as 'The Blaugrana Tour, Asia Edition, by Philips Ambilight TV', is organized in collaboration with Korean company D-DRIVE.Co and the YASUDA Group in Japan. Ticket sales for the matches will be available through local platforms, ensuring accessibility for fans eager to witness the matches live.

In conclusion, FC Barcelona's return to Asia for the 2025/26 preseason not only highlights the club's commitment to its international fanbase but also reflects its strategic focus on expanding its global reach in the lucrative Asian market. The successful execution of this tour will likely influence future engagements and partnerships in the region, paving the way for a stronger global presence.