Japan women’s soccer team forced to fly economy, not men

Japan's world champion women's soccer team is not getting the royal treatment for the 2012 Olympics.

Members of the squad complained after they were forced to fly economy class, while the men's team was given seats in business class, according to BBC News.

The women's team, known as Nadeshiko Japan, is a strong contender to earn a gold medal this summer, while the men's team is expected to go home empty handed.

"I guess it should have been the other way around," star player Homare Sawa told Japanese media.

More from GlobalPost: London Olympics: Saudi Arabia searching for women athletes

According to the Telegraph, the women's team flew from Tokyo to Paris on Japan Airlines for an warm-up match against France and despite winning the Women's World Cup in Germany last year were upgraded from economy to "premium economy."

Meanwhile, the men's Olympic soccer team flew business class to its own warm-up matches, as it has since 1996, despite the fact it last won an Olympic medal in 1968, the Telegraph reported.

Fox News reported local media said Japan's association claims the men's seat upgrade recognized the players' "professional status."

Will you support The World with a monthly donation?

There is no paywall on the story you just read because a community of dedicated listeners and readers have contributed to keep the global news you rely on free and accessible for all. Will you join the 319 donors who have supported The World so far? From now until Dec. 31, your gift will help us unlock a $67,000 match. Donate today to double your impact!