Mie Honda HEAT Enters a New Chapter: Launch of 'Tochigi Honda HEAT' and New Emblem

We are pleased to announce that the team name 'Mie Honda HEAT' will be changed to 'Tochigi Honda HEAT' starting from the 2026-27 season. Additionally, we will completely renew our visual identity (VI), including the emblem, logo, and mascot.

These changes symbolize a new beginning for the team as it relocates its operational base to Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, in September 2026. They also reflect our determination to carry forward the 65-year legacy and spirit cultivated in Suzuka while creating new value and excitement together with the people of Tochigi Prefecture.

The new team name and VI will be officially adopted starting July 1, 2026 (Wednesday).

In connection with this, a press conference was held on June 18 in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, for media representatives.

The new emblem represents the passion and dreams of the region, fans, players, and staff converging into one powerful heat (HEAT). It also embodies our team value, '“BIND” All Dreams,' expressing our strong unity and commitment to pursuing our dreams. The mascot character 'HEAT-kun' retains the beloved characteristics of the long-standing figure while being redesigned to be more expressive and energetic, aiming to become a character cherished by an even wider audience across generations.

■ Highlights from the Press Conference

The press conference featured General Manager Kohei Ohashi, along with player Katsuyuki Hoshino, recently selected for JAPAN XV; Ryu Furuta, a ninth-year player leading the team; and Shogo Okano, a promising young player entering his third season.

GM Ohashi reported on the team’s preparations for the relocation to Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, and shared results from the host games held at Honda HEAT Green Stadium in Utsunomiya during the 2025-26 season, prior to the official move.

Additionally, Soshi Kanamori, the team’s Creative Director, explained the vision behind the new VI and the team’s future direction.

When asked for his thoughts on the new emblem, player Furuta commented, 'The new emblem, depicting a clenched fist and flames, perfectly embodies the team’s unity and the intense heat of HEAT. I think it looks fantastic.'

Player Hoshino shared his impressions of the new logo design: 'It feels simple yet dynamic, while preserving the best elements of the previous logo. It’s a design that conveys a sense of history.'

Regarding the renewed HEAT-kun, player Okano said, 'I’ve always loved the original HEAT-kun, but I believe the new version, with its more expressive features, will foster even greater affection among fans.'

■ The Team’s Vision Behind the New VI

[New Team Name]

We have chosen this name to signify taking root in the meaningful soil of Tochigi and creating excitement together with the local community.

[New Emblem]

The heat of HEAT.

A 'fist' thrusting upward toward dreams.

Players, staff, spectators, and the community.

Each individual’s passion and dreams overlap,

forming one great flame that burns fiercely.

A minimalist, linear flame graphic, stripped down to its essence.

Within it lies the unshakable strength and power inherent in rugby.

Under the banner of '“BIND” All Dreams,' we channel our resolve to advance toward our dreams into a tightly clenched fist.

[New Logo]

Carrying forward our pride to the land of Tochigi.

Even from afar, this heat will be felt. The radiant, explosive energy once embodied in the old logo.

Without losing that spirit, we move toward even greater strength.

An overwhelming presence that instantly convinces anyone it is 'HEAT.'

When this logo shines, we become the hottest team in the world.

[New Mascot]

While preserving the beloved fiery character, we’ve powered up HEAT-kun into a more energetic figure, aiming to become a more approachable presence for the local community.

An invincible smile radiating overwhelming toughness and friendliness.

The new HEAT-kun will deliver the ultimate excitement to everyone, both on and off the field.