Top Songs to Hype Up Sports Day and Athletic Festivals [2026]

Love will winKAN78rank/position

Aiwa Katsu

KAN, the popular singer-songwriter, is best known for his signature song “Ai wa Katsu” (“Love Will Win”), a piece that sings about the importance of believing in the power of love.

Released as a single in September 1990, it was chosen as the ending theme for TV Asahi’s program “Quiz Omoshiro TV.” Inspired by a friend’s love-life consultation, the song was reportedly written with Billy Joel in mind, and its piano tones combined with KAN’s warm vocals resonate deeply.

It’s a courageous, hope-filled track that makes you want to listen together with someone special—perfect for times when you’re feeling down or when you want to give it your all.

The One and Only Flower in the WorldSMAP79rank/position

The Only Flower in the World – SMAP

When it comes to moving songs, isn’t it impossible to talk about them without mentioning this one? It’s a signature track by SMAP, the nationally beloved idol group.

With lyrics themed around “Only One,” I think it’s perfect for school sports days, too.

It might be a slightly older song, but I believe it’s one of those timeless classics that still deserves to be loved.

The members’ gentle voices really touch the heart, don’t they?

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Hane Keisuke

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Footsteps ~Be StrongMr.Children80rank/position

Mr.Children “Footsteps” Live from TOUR 2015 REFLECTION

A popular song that was also used as the theme for the drama “Nobunaga Concerto.” Described in the show as a motivational anthem that gives you a push forward, it was reportedly completed after numerous rewrites and marks Mr.

Children’s first self-produced track.

Perhaps for that reason, it carries a vibe of taking a new step.

While it’s not uptempo, it could work well for intermission staging or as background music.

ultra soulB’z81rank/position

[Wind Band Hit] ultra soul / B’z

This single, released in March 2001, is an uplifting anthem delivered with a powerful rock sound and a message that strikes straight to the heart.

It conveys encouragement to those striving toward their dreams, depicting the emotions that waver between hope and disappointment, as well as the courage to challenge one’s own limits.

It’s a track where B’z’s signature sense of speed and Koshi Inaba’s dynamic vocals blend seamlessly.

The song was continuously selected as the official theme for the World Aquatics Championships from 2001 to 2024, becoming a staple that energizes the sports scene.

It’s also highly recommended as a cheer song for school sports days and athletic festivals, boosting participants’ morale and uniting everyone in excitement.

Kaiju no Hanabuta (Monster’s Flower Song)Vaundy82rank/position

Monster’s Flower Song / Vaundy: MUSIC VIDEO

This is a moving piece by Vaundy that depicts the powerful determination to pursue one’s dreams, guided by a cherished song of memories held in the heart.

With a warm tone that cheers on adults who tend to lose their innocent passion and awakens the origins sleeping within, it leaves a strong impression.

Since its release in May 2020, its singable, catchy melody and powerful sound have gradually gained popularity, reaching No.

3 on the Billboard Japan Hot 100 in January 2023.

The exhilarating rhythm and fiery message make it perfect as background music for a relay where you and your teammates aim for first place.

BlessingYOASOBI83rank/position

YOASOBI 'The Blessing' Official Music Video (Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury Opening Theme)

YOASOBI, a music duo that enjoys overwhelming support especially among younger generations, released “Shukufuku” in 2022.

It was also selected as the opening theme for the anime Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.

The song carries a message of encouragement for those who move forward despite loneliness and anxiety.

Its exhilarating, fast-paced beat—perfectly suited to the never-give-up spirit of a sports day—will energize the venue.

Why not heighten the sense of unity with its electrifying electronica sound that seems to portray a passionate heart?

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mutō

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Precious thingsroodo obu mejyaa84rank/position

Lord of Major / Precious Things

Released in 2002, Road of Major’s indie debut single is a quintessential youth punk anthem themed around friendship and bonds.

It delivers universal themes—meeting and parting with friends, supporting one another—through an energetic sound.

Remarkably, as an indie release, the song spent 19 consecutive weeks in the Oricon Top 10 and sold over 900,000 copies in total.

It’s also included on the album “ROAD OF MAJOR” and the best-of compilation “GOLDEN ROAD ～BEST～.” This track is perfect for anyone who has dear friends they’re connected to at heart, even when apart.

Listen to it during graduation season or at the start of a new chapter in life, and you’ll be reminded of the irreplaceable value of those connections.