Honda to rename rugby team

MANILA: Honda Motor Company Limited will update the name of its rugby team from “Mie Honda Heat” to “Tochigi Honda Heat,” following the brand’s move to transfer its base of operations, which reflects the said prefectures.

Starting with the 2026-2027 season, the rugby team will not only change its name but also refresh its visual identity, including team emblem, logos, and mascot.

The team will begin using the new name and visual identity on July 1, 2026. 

“From the 2026-27 season, our team will begin a new chapter as the Tochigi Honda Heat. With deep gratitude to everyone who supported us in Suzuka, Mie, we will strive for continued growth and further leap forward in our new home, Tochigi. We will continue to take on challenges as one united team to advance to the playoffs and become the number one team in Japan,” Tochigi Honda Heat General Manager Kohei Ohashi was quoted as saying.

Per Honda Motor Company Limited, the changes represent the start of a new chapter for the team, which will relocate its base of operation to Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan, in September 2026.

The team — Honda Motor Company Limited pointed out — is also renewing its determination to carry forward its history and spirit fostered over the past 65 years in Suzuka, Mie Prefecture, and create new value and inspire more people, together with the fans and people of Tochigi Prefecture. 

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New team emblem, mascot

According to Honda Motor Company Limited, the new emblem of its rugby team expresses how the passion and dreams of the community, fans, players, and team staff come together to generate a powerful “heat.”

Likewise, the new emblem also reflects the team’s commitment, under the team value — “bind” all dreams — and take on challenges toward its dreams while harnessing strong team unity. 

Further, the team mascot, “heat-kun,” will carry over the essence of the long-beloved existing mascot, while being redesigned into a more expressive and energetic character with the aim of becoming beloved by people across all generations.

Honda changes in PH

Speaking of changes, Honda Cars Philippines Incorporated (HCPI) recently changed its emblem during its appearance at the 10th Philippine International Motor Show. 

Likewise, the new logo was used by Honda Motor Company Limited as it entered a new phase with its supposed retinue of electrified models, which unfortunately got sacked, leaving the company to face losses.

Nevertheless, the new black-and-white badge, HCPI stated, resembles two outstretched arms, representing its readiness to welcome the continuous evolution of mobility and adapt to a changing market. 

Also read:

Honda Cars PH dons new logo

Honda Cars PH highlights electrified models at PIMS 2026

Should Honda introduce its new off-road mobile app to PH?

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