A New Hybrid Sports Experience! Real x Virtual! The World's First Footgolf Game App Using Real Soccer Balls, 'FOOTGOLF PUTT CHALLENGE,' is Here!

The Japan Footgolf Association (headquartered in Tokorozawa City, Saitama Prefecture; President: Shinpei Matsuura) announced the release of 'FOOTGOLF PUTT CHALLENGE,' the world's first footgolf game app using real soccer balls, on the 17th. Developed under the official endorsement of the Association, this immersive sports game app allows players to kick (putt) actual soccer balls, enabling enjoyment anywhere—not just on golf courses—as long as users have the app and a soccer ball. The Association aims to introduce new ways to enjoy footgolf and promote the sport to a broader, multi-generational audience through this app.

※1: Survey by the Association.

## App Overview

'FOOTGOLF PUTT CHALLENGE' leverages AR (augmented reality) technology available on LiDAR-equipped iPhones—sensors that precisely measure distance to objects—to transform any outdoor location into a footgolf putting practice field. Players use their smartphone camera to view distance guides and virtual cups overlaid in AR, then kick a real soccer ball (putt) to play the game. By blending digital and real-world elements, the app delivers a new, physical sports experience that is enjoyed through the body, not just on-screen.

Designed for both experienced footgolf players and complete beginners, the app allows anyone to play anywhere. Whether for practicing footgolf putting or simply as an entry point to the sport, it offers an accessible and enjoyable way to engage with footgolf.

## Key Features

- Ground recognition and distance guide display via AR
- Setting of ball and cup positions
- Cup-in detection and kick count recording
- Play history tracking
- Adjustable settings for distance, tolerance range, cup-in radius, PAR, and ball size
- Immediate start with anonymous login—no registration required

## System Requirements

- Compatible devices: LiDAR-equipped iPhones (iPhone 12 Pro and later)
- Operating system: iOS 18.6 or later
- Price: Free
- Language: Japanese
- Category: Sports

Currently available only on iPhone. Android version under consideration for future release.

## Download

App Store: https://apps.apple.com/jp/app/footgolf-putt-challenge/id6776112079

Sample screenshots of the actual app.

## Trial Play Area at 'Shibuya e-Stadium'

'Shibuya e-Stadium' is a rental e-sports stadium located in central Shibuya—just a 3-minute walk from JR Shibuya Station—known for its cutting-edge culture. It is part of 'e-Sports High School,' Japan's first e-sports specialized high school, established in April 2022. The facility boasts high-speed internet and a top-tier gaming environment tailored for e-sports.

In conjunction with the app's release, the Association will set up a trial play area for 'FOOTGOLF PUTT CHALLENGE' within Shibuya e-Stadium, where users can experience the app firsthand.

This trial area is a pilot initiative aimed at potential permanent installation. Initially, access will be limited to current students of e-Sports High School. The Association will evaluate the potential for increasing engagement with non-players and expanding the sport's participant base through this new footgolf experience combining smartphones and real soccer balls.

※ 'Shibuya e-Stadium' does not accept inquiries about the app. For all app-related inquiries, please contact the Japan Footgolf Association.

## Message from Shinpei Matsuura, President of the Japan Footgolf Association

"'FOOTGOLF PUTT CHALLENGE' is a new tool to make footgolf more accessible. We aim to deliver the joy of kicking a real soccer ball to those who have never experienced footgolf, regardless of location. Through this app, we will continue to promote awareness and participation in footgolf."

## What is Footgolf?

Footgolf is a new sport that merges two distinct sports: soccer (football) and golf. Using a size 5 soccer ball, players complete 9 or 18 holes on a golf course. It's easy to understand if you imagine 'playing golf with a soccer ball.'

Footgolf was formalized in the Netherlands in 2009. In 2012, the International Footgolf Federation (FIFG) was established, and the first World Cup was held in Hungary. The sport is now enjoyed in over 60 countries, primarily in Europe and North America, and is one of the fastest-growing and most watched sports today.

The second World Cup took place in Argentina in January 2016 with 26 participating countries. The third was held in Morocco in December 2018, with around 500 players from 33 countries. The fourth edition took place in Orlando, Florida, from late May to early June 2023, with about 1,000 players from 39 countries. The fifth World Cup was held in Acapulco, Mexico, from late May to early June 2026, with over 1,000 players from 48 countries.

※ The fourth World Cup was originally scheduled to be held in Japan from September 2020 but was postponed to September 2021 due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. It was later canceled on January 28, 2021, following a resolution by the FIFG General Assembly.

In footgolf-advanced countries like the United States, nearly 600 courses are available, and in the UK, the number exceeds 200, contributing to rising global awareness, especially in Western countries. In Japan, the Association was founded in February 2014 and immediately began hosting prize tournaments such as the Japan Open. In 2017, the first international tournament in Japan was held at the South Course of the prestigious Karuizawa 72 Golf. As of June 2026, approximately 30 footgolf courses are available across Japan.

Footgolf is currently an observer member of GAISF (Global Association of International Sports Federations) and aims to become an official Olympic sport in the future.

## Association Overview

- Name: Japan Footgolf Association (General Incorporated Association)
- Address: 3rd Floor, Dai-3 Takei Building, 737-3 Higashinaraito, Tokorozawa City, Saitama 359-0034, Japan
- President: Shinpei Matsuura
- Official Ambassador: Yoichi Takahashi (creator of Captain Tsubasa)
- Special Advisor: Yoshinori Hayashi (former Vice President, Japan Football Association)
- Development Advisor: Yudai Takashima (former Head of Youth Development, Kashima Antlers)
- Established: February 2014
- FIFG Membership: November 2014
- Official Website: https://www.jfga.jp/