Japan Supporters Stay Behind to Clean Stadium After 4–0 Victory Over Tunisia
Japanese football fans once again drew global admiration after staying behind to clean Monterrey Stadium following their team’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Tunisia in a landmark World Cup fixture. Rather than leaving immediately after celebrating the win—which marked the 1,000th match in World Cup history—supporters of Japan’s national team remained in the stands to collect trash, cups, and other waste left behind. The act reflects a cultural practice known in Japan as gomi hiroi, which emphasizes personal responsibility for shared spaces. Among those participating was 30-year-old Ken Okawa, who described the experience as both meaningful and respectful. Attending his first World Cup match, he said cleaning the stadium was his way of expressing gratitude to the host country. “We are guests in Mexico,” he explained. “I have been treated wonderfully, so this is my way of showing appreciation.” The practice of leaving public spaces clean is deeply rooted in Japanese society, where children are taught from an early age to clean classrooms, school grounds, and shared environments. Many fans say this upbringing makes post-event cleanups feel natural rather than unusual. Another supporter, 41-year-old Miku Takeya, said the habit has become second nature over time. According to her, ensuring that spaces are left clean for others is simply part of everyday responsibility in Japan. “It’s a natural part of our culture,” she said. “We do this so the next person can use it comfortably.” Images and videos of Japanese fans cleaning stadiums after matches have repeatedly gone viral during international tournaments, earning widespread praise online for their discipline and humility. Many observers say the behaviour stands out in contrast to typical post-match scenes at large sporting events.
Ahead of the match, Nuevo León Governor Samuel García reportedly coordinated efforts to support cleanliness in the stadium, including the distribution of thousands of trash bags across the venue and surrounding fan zones, according to local reports. The move followed engagement with Japanese supporters ahead of the fixture. Despite the global attention the practice continues to receive, many Japanese fans insist it is simply part of everyday life rather than an extraordinary gesture. “For us, it’s common sense,” said one supporter, 27-year-old Ichiro Oyo. Another fan, 32-year-old Ryo Matsuoka, said he takes pride in seeing the tradition recognised on an international stage, especially at high-profile tournaments where global audiences are watching. “I think it is a matter of great pride that this is being showcased in a stadium like this, where people from all over the world are watching,” he said. The moment once again highlighted not only Japan’s strong football performance but also the cultural values of discipline, respect, and collective responsibility that continue to resonate far beyond the pitch.
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