SINGAPORE – Tsutomu Ogura, head coach of the Singapore national football team, has officially stepped down from his position due to urgent personal matters requiring his return to Japan, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) confirmed on June 24, 2025. Having signed a two-year contract in February 2024, he departs after just 16 months in charge, making him the fourth coach in six years to leave the role under FAS’s leadership.
Ogura notified FAS several weeks ago about his intention to resign. The association’s executive committee engaged in discussions to explore ways he might continue, but ultimately conceded that his personal obligations made continuation impossible. “Despite collective efforts and a mutual desire to sustain the working relationship, the nature of the personal issues involved ultimately made it untenable for him to continue,” FAS said.
In response, FAS quickly moved to appoint Gavin Lee, former head coach of the BG Tampines Rovers as interim head coach while initiating a search for a long-term successor “who possesses the vision, expertise and leadership qualities to elevate Singapore football to the next level”. Further, FAS expressed its gratitude: “The FAS respects Mr Ogura’s decision and extends its sincere appreciation for his professionalism, commitment, and contribution to Singapore football during his time at the helm. We wish him and his family well in their future endeavours”.
Ogura, a former assistant coach for Japan’s national and Olympic teams, brought nearly two decades of international experience to the role, including management tenures at clubs such as Yokohama F. Marinos and Tokyo Verdy. Though his record with the Lions stood at five wins, three draws, and eight losses in 16 matches, his impact went beyond results. Under his guidance, Singapore reached the ASEAN Championship semi-finals in 2024—the team’s first appearance at that stage since 2021—and began their Asian Cup qualifying campaign strongly, sitting atop their group after two games.
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Players and insiders praised Ogura’s commitment to building team cohesion and professionalism. “He tried to get to know everyone as a person, as a human, before they were footballers … He cares for the players quite a lot and the backroom staff members as well.” Said one of the Player.
Similarly, lawyer and fan Eddy Hirono described him as “a coach who made an effort to build bonds with fans”. Strategic communications consultant Edwin Yeo labeled Ogura “a real breath of fresh air,”
“The education that he brought to the FAS teams internally … was really invaluable.” He said.
Despite these accolades, some critics questioned his departure timing. Independent commentator Jose Raymond argued that Ogura’s record five wins out of 16—fell short of expectations, suggesting more seasoned leadership might be needed.
As Singapore begins its search for a permanent replacement, the transition period presents both challenges and opportunities. FAS hopes the next appointment will combine tactical acumen with the ability to inspire fans and elevate the national team’s profile a task that Ogura had begun with notable positive influence on and off the pitch
