Shuichi Gonda, a professional footballer and a member of the Japanese national team. As an Abarth enthusiast and partner, he recently took delivery of the Abarth 595C Turismo. He shared his thoughts on the World Cup year, his encounter with Abarth, and his impressions of using it as a daily driver.

It's been about a month since Shuichi Gonda, captain of J1 club Shimizu S-Pulse and the starting goalkeeper for the Japanese national team SAMURAI BLUE, began living with the Abarth 595C Turismo, a car he had 'always wanted to drive.' He found that the car offered some pleasant surprises.

'I wondered about the interior space, being a compact car, but despite my height of 187 cm, I didn't feel cramped at all. On the contrary, the simple design with nothing superfluous and the controls within easy reach make it easy to operate. Also, it was faster than I expected. It moves forward with just a light press of the accelerator.'

The Abarth 595C Turismo weighs a light 1160kg and is equipped with a 1.4-liter inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine producing a maximum output of 165ps, allowing for exhilarating acceleration.

Gonda primarily uses the car for his commute.

'I drive to and from the training ground, which takes about 30 to 40 minutes one way. This time alone, where I can think or reflect on the day's practice, is incredibly precious to me. Conversely, I might find an environment where the training ground is only 5 minutes away more challenging. Oh, and there's a road along the coast on the way to practice. Shimizu has been a bit warmer lately, so opening the roof really lifts my spirits.'

As many may know, Abarth is a manufacturer that has honed its technology through motorsports. The company established its current position by engaging in extreme battles in touring car races, GT races, and rallies, and then channeling the know-how gained from these experiences into its development.

Gonda is also an athlete who lives in the world of competition. Does the growth of a footballer also come from playing matches, not just from practice?

'Yes. In racing, unexpected things probably happen, and football is the same. No matter how much you prepare and practice against the opponent's tactics, various things happen in every match. The ability to adjust during a game, or to take issues back after the match and make corrections individually or as a team to prepare for the next game – these things can only be learned through playing matches.'