The Junior Premier League (JPL) has officially launched in China following a spectacular opening ceremony in Shanghai.

The launch marks a major milestone in the JPL’s mission to unite young footballers around the world through opportunity, community and a shared love of the game. The opening ceremony — attended by dignitaries, representatives of the British government and business community, players and leaders from across China’s football community — celebrates the latest chapter in the JPL story and promises to create incredible new opportunities for youth sport in the region.

Its arrival in China marks an opportunity to bring the JPL’s renowned player-centred approach to development to market with obvious and, largely untapped, potential. Working closely with local partners, JPL China will begin in Shanghai before expanding to other major cities in the months ahead.

Speaking at the launch, Martin Brock, Global CEO of the JPL, said:  “Football has an incredible power to bring people together — to cross borders, build friendships and create opportunities that last a lifetime. What we’re building with the JPL is more than just a league; it’s a global community where young players can grow not only as athletes but as people. The launch of JPL China is another step towards that vision — one where a child in Shanghai, Sydney or Southampton can feel part of the same family. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, football and the JPL can reminds us of what we share.”

JPL China will provide young players with the same environment of inclusivity, respect and high standards that has defined the league’s success in the UK and beyond. Each match, training session and event will focus on developing talent, fostering teamwork and inspiring confidence — on and off the pitch.

The launch in Shanghai follows recent JPL expansions into the Middle East and North America, as part of the organisation’s commitment to giving young people unique opportunities and pathways to fulfil their sporting dreams. As the celebrations in Shanghai came to a close, one message echoed loudest: 千里之行，始于足下, which translates to “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.”

*For more information about JPL China or to sign up to play in the league, email JPL-China@QAS-Asia.com