The city mayor appeals to the owners of the professional football team, Yokohama F. Marinos, to reconsider their plans of selling the club. The plea comes amidst growing concerns over the team's possible removal from the city due to its economic troubles. The mayor is urging the organization to explore alternative strategies for financial stability, including the sale of franchise rights.

In Japan, football clubs are often viewed as a significant part of regional identity and culture. Their financial status or ownership structures carry both social and economic implications, affecting local businesses and morale. Thus, the potential sale or re-location of a local team could have a profound local impact.

This is similar to situations in the US or EU where sports teams have faced potential relocation due to financial struggles, generating a strong response from local governments and fans. The American city of Cleveland, for instance, launched a successful 'Save our Browns' campaign when their NFL team announced plans to move to Baltimore.