[New Songs & All-Time] Olympic Cheer Songs and Olympic Theme Songs

one secondSixTONES

[SixTONES “One Second”] Feelings sent to athletes competing in Milan this winter | Nippon TV 2026 Athlete Support Song

This song was produced as the “2026 Athlete Support Song” for the Nippon TV network in the lead-up to the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics being held in February 2026.

It’s said that the real voices of the athletes—captured by the main anchors at their reporting sites—served as the foundation for its creation.

The passionate message, which sings of the split-second moments that decide victory and defeat, as well as the accumulation that leads up to them, resonates deeply.

It’s a piece you’ll want to listen to not only before sports competitions, but also in those pivotal moments of life—like exams or work—when everything is on the line.

Bridge of Gloryyuzu

Eikou no Kakehashi – Yuzu (Full)

Although it was released as a single in 2004, this timeless Yuzu classic is almost always used in moving scenes on TV.

Of course, since it was the official theme song for NHK’s coverage of the Athens Olympics, we heard it practically every day during the Games.

Its lyrics, packed with courage and hope—about facing any challenge and ultimately seizing victory—are perfectly suited to the Olympic celebration of sport.

It’s also a song I’d love people to hear when they’re feeling a bit down and need a lift.

Joy-ride ~Drive of Ecstasy~EXILE

EXILE / Joy-ride ~Drive of Ecstasy~

This is a single released in 2016 by EXILE, the dance-vocal group known for hit songs like “Choo Choo TRAIN.” It’s a high-energy uptempo track brimming with a sense of speed, like sprinting under the summer blue sky, and just listening to it lifts your spirits.

The lyrics convey a wish for listeners to stay relaxed even on the big stage, bring out their true strength, and ride the wave of jubilation.

It was chosen as the theme song for Fuji TV’s broadcasts of the Rio de Janeiro Olympics.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to ease their nerves when it’s crunch time.

crystallizationNakajima Kento

crystallization

This is a heart-stirring fight song that powerfully expresses a burning desire to triumph and the bonds with teammates.

Sung by Kento Nakajima, it will be included on the album “IDOL1ST,” scheduled for release in February 2026.

Created as the official TEAM JAPAN cheer song for the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, it features an electro-dance sound produced by ☆Taku Takahashi of m-flo and uplifting vocals designed for full-venue singalongs.

It’s a track that supports everyone who puts in effort day after day and gives you the courage to step into the future!

KEEP ON YOUR SIDEKatsumata Aiko

Heartbeat (Harbie) / [MV] KEEP ON YOUR SIDE (2022 ver.) [Ayiko Katsumata]

This is a heartwarming cheer song sung by Aiko Katsumata, who drew attention with her overwhelming vocal prowess.

Released in January 2002 as her debut single, it was chosen as the theme for TV Tokyo’s broadcasts of the Salt Lake City Olympics.

The R&B-tinged melody pairs beautifully with Katsumata’s embracing, full-bodied voice.

The lyrics carry a message of transforming even pain and tears into strength and taking flight toward the future, mirroring the athletes striving in competition and stirring deep emotion.

It’s a timeless masterpiece that tells you, “I’m on your side.”

TogetherCrystal Kay

Together

A timeless message that gives a push to those who keep taking on challenges is woven into this classic by Crystal Kay.

Included on a single released in February 2006, it was used as the relay theme song for TV Tokyo’s coverage of “Torino 2006.” The song is also featured on the acclaimed album “Call me Miss…”.

Crystal Kay’s supple movement between R&B and pop, paired with her expansive, nurturing vocals, is truly captivating.

It offers warmth that supports not only athletes facing high-stakes competitions, but everyone standing at a turning point in life—like entrance exams or job hunting.

Strong and beautifulKYOKO☆

Go for it, Japan! “Strong and Beautiful” by Fine Motion

This is a grand number that, inspired by the words left by Mikio Oda—the first Japanese Olympic gold medalist—expresses not only victory but also spiritual beauty.

Released in July 2012, the song was chosen as the official theme for the Japanese national team heading to the London Olympics.

The fact that Mitsuo Tsukahara, who served as the team’s general director at the time, wrote the lyrics with the aim of providing mental support to the athletes also gives the piece greater depth.

KYOKO☆’s soaring vocals gently accompany hearts wrapped in tension and awaken a quiet fighting spirit.

It’s a song I’d like not only athletes facing their make-or-break moments to hear, but also anyone battling immense pressure.