Coca-Cola (Japan) Co. said Friday it has agreed with Japanese soccer player Hidetoshi Nakata on a deal for commercial appearances and cooperation in the company's social action programs.
The partnership contract will extend from this April to December 2006.
In July, confectionery manufacturer Tohato Inc. named Nakata an executive officer, placing him in a position to help the company make strategic decisions in marketing and other areas.
Nakata will not take up a managerial position with Coca-Cola (Japan).
He is captain of the Japanese national team and currently plays for Italian first-division side Bologna.