The Japan Football Association has launched a real-world training camp modelled on the popular anime Blue Lock, in which players compete in a gruelling programme for a chance to represent Japan's national team. Held in partnership with SCO Group, the free "Future Camp" took place in early August 2026 and targeted young Japanese-American footballers, marking the JFA's first large-scale overseas talent-identification scheme and reflecting the anime's global popularity as a recruitment tool.

Only 25 Japanese-American youths aged 15 to 16 were eligible, with all expenses covered for those accepted. Speaking to IGN, participants and organisers, including camp attendee Kota Ishida and JFA chief coach Hirata Reiji, described the camp as a rare opportunity to train alongside international talent and progress towards the Japanese national team, while project lead Jimuro Akito said the anime tie-in was chosen to boost global awareness of the JFA's scouting efforts.