MP & Silva has signed a long-term agreement with the J.League, the governing body of soccer in Japan, to distribute the media rights for the country's premier national knockout competition.

The four-year deal will see the agency distribute the J.League Yamazaki Nabisco Cup globally, with the exception of Japan, across all media platforms. It fits into MP & Silva's stated aim of raising the profile and commercial success of Asian soccer. While the company could be hard-pressed to get the competition much recognition in Europe, it could still secure US$500,000 per year in commission.

"Since the establishment of a professional league, Japanese football has grown from strength to strength and Japan has blossomed into a regional powerhouse," said MP & Silvca director Su Hyeon Cho. "Our partnership with Japan Professional Football League (J.League) aims to showcase the best of Asian football to the global and Asian markets. We are one of the very few companies that are focused on helping growing Asian football commercially as an industry, and the deal not only consolidates our leadership position in Asian football, but also demonstrates our commitment in playing a key role in developing and investing in Asian football even in these difficult times."

The competition will feature all Japan's leading clubs, including reigning AFC Champions League holders, Gamba Osaka, and 2007 AFC Champions League winners, Urawa Red Diamonds.