Live-Action ‘Blue Lock’ Adaptation Secures International Sales Rights

The live-action adaptation of the acclaimed soccer manga Blue Lock has secured international sales rights through Round 12, a newly established production and distribution label by Goodfellas and Mediawan Sports. This announcement marks a significant step in bringing the popular series to a broader audience at the European Film Market (EFM).

The manga, created by Muneyuki Kaneshiro and illustrated by Yusuke Nomura, tells the story of a secret training program launched by the Japan Football Union. The program aims to discover the world’s greatest striker following years of underperformance by the national team. In a high-stakes competition, three hundred high school players are brought together at a secluded facility where they must engage in fierce trials. Only one will emerge as the leading striker, while others face permanent expulsion from the Japan National Team.

Fumiya Takahashi, known for his role in Kamen Rider Zero-One, stars as Yoichi Isagi, an aspiring player determined to outshine his 299 competitors. The live-action film is set for release by TOHO on August 7, 2026, coinciding with the Soccer World Cup, and will screen in approximately 350 theatres across Japan.

Expectations are high for the film’s box office performance, bolstered by the manga’s impressive track record. With over 50 million copies sold and translations available in 24 languages, Blue Lock has captured a global audience. Notably, around one quarter of total sales occurred outside Japan, with North America and France identified as key markets.

Round 12 reports that the manga’s animated series, which debuted in 2022, has attracted a diverse viewership, comprising 35% from North America, 25% from Europe, and 25% from Latin America. Both seasons of the animated series are available for streaming on Crunchyroll, further contributing to the franchise’s popularity.

Additionally, a theatrical animated feature titled Blue Lock: Episode Nagi has already made waves, earning approximately $23.3 million at the global box office, showcasing the demand for content related to the franchise.

The upcoming live-action adaptation of Blue Lock is poised to build on this momentum, offering fans an exciting new way to engage with the story and its characters. As anticipation grows, the film promises to be a highlight in the sports entertainment landscape leading up to the Soccer World Cup.