J.League Symbol
The J.League Symbol is the most iconic expression of the J.League brand and the foundation of its visual identity. Created at the league’s founding in 1991, the symbol takes the form of the letter “J,” representing Japan’s premier professional football league through a bold and timeless design. The white circle at its center represents a football, while the red circle draws inspiration from the Japanese flag. The curved outer form, shaped like three quarters of a clock face, takes inspiration from the 45 minute clock that defines each half of a football match.
Clear Space & Minimum Size
Clear Space
To preserve the symbol’s integrity and visibility, the prescribed clear space must always be maintained around it. As a general rule, do not place text, graphic elements, or other visual assets within this protected area.
Minimum Size
To ensure sufficient visibility, the symbol must not be displayed smaller than the minimum size specified above.
Color
J.Black
J.White
J.Red
Color Variations
The symbol must maintain its integrity and visibility across all backgrounds and applications. Select the most appropriate variation from the approved options according to the background color and intended use.
Primary Use
This is the preferred variation of the J.League brand. Select either the Black or White version according to the brightness of the background and prioritize their use whenever possible.
Black
White
Background Combinations
When used with colored backgrounds, ensure that the logo remains clearly visible. Select the color variation that provides the highest level of contrast and legibility for the given application.
Secondary Use
Alternative variations are intended for use only when the preferred variation cannot be applied effectively. It may be used when required by specific production or environmental constraints, such as watermark applications or single color printing.
Black 1C
White 1C
Special Applications
Other Colors
For communications led by J.Clubs or J.League Official Partners, as well as communications individually approved by the J.League for a specific purpose, the secondary symbol may be reproduced in a single color other than black or white.
Outlined Variation
This variation may be used only when the standard black or white variations cannot maintain sufficient visibility, such as on complex photographic backgrounds.
Incorrect Usage
Incorrect use of the symbol may compromise the integrity and consistency of the J.League brand. To ensure proper application, the modifications shown below are prohibited.
Changing the outline
Changing the aspect ratio
Rotating or flipping the logo
Changing opacity without a defined purpose
Adding drop shadows or other effects
Changing to unapproved colors
Compositing with photos or textures
Applying gradients
Ignoring clear space requirements
Excessive use of the logo
Exceptions to the above restrictions may be permitted where a modification serves a clear creative purpose and demonstrates a significant communication benefit. Please consult the J.League Brand Team before applying any such treatment.
EX)
- Distortion of the mark to follow the contours of illustrated uniforms or other illustrated surfaces.
- Image based treatments directly linked to the communication objective, provided that the approved logo also appears elsewhere within the same creative.
- Use of a drop shadow where necessary to ensure sufficient visibility.