by Anime fans will have two exciting series to look forward to this summer as BS12 Twelvi has officially announced the addition of “Captain Tsubasa (Elementary School Arc)” and “Shin Samurai Den YAIBA” to its late-night anime programming block, “Anime 26,” beginning in July 2026.
The announcement brings together two beloved franchises that have left a significant mark on Japanese pop culture. One is a legendary sports anime that inspired generations of soccer players, while the other is a modern adaptation of a classic action-adventure manga created by one of Japan’s most famous manga artists.
Captain Tsubasa (Elementary School Arc)
“Captain Tsubasa (Elementary School Arc)” is scheduled to begin broadcasting on July 6, 2026, as part of the Anime 26 lineup.
The series follows Tsubasa Ozora, a highly talented young soccer player who transfers to Nankatsu Elementary School. Driven by his passion for soccer and dreams of becoming the best player in the world, Tsubasa faces numerous challenges and powerful rivals from across Japan.
Throughout the story, he competes against memorable opponents such as the gifted goalkeeper Genzo Wakabayashi and the fierce striker Kojiro Hyuga. These intense rivalries help Tsubasa grow both as a player and as a person while teaching important lessons about teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
Created by Yoichi Takahashi, “Captain Tsubasa” became one of the most influential sports manga and anime series ever produced. It’s exciting matches, unforgettable characters, and spectacular special techniques that captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
The franchise’s popularity quickly spread beyond Japan, creating a global “Captain Tsubasa Boom.” The series has been credited with inspiring countless professional soccer players, coaches, and fans. Many internationally recognized football stars have openly acknowledged the impact that Captain Tsubasa had on their childhood dreams and careers.
Even today, the franchise remains one of the most iconic sports anime series, continuing to attract new generations of viewers through remakes, reboots, and international broadcasts.
Shin Samurai Den YAIBA
Meanwhile, “Shin Samurai Den YAIBA” will begin airing on July 3, 2026, every Friday within the Anime 26 block.
The series is based on “YAIBA,” the classic manga created by Gosho Aoyama, best known for creating the long-running detective series “Detective Conan” and “Magic Kaito.” The original manga was serialized in Weekly Shonen Sunday from 1988 to 1993 and gained a dedicated fanbase for its unique blend of action, comedy, and fantasy.
The story centers on Kurogane Yaiba, a wild and energetic young samurai who has spent much of his life training in the jungle. After returning to Japan, Yaiba embarks on a new journey in search of greater strength and worthy opponents. His adventures lead him into thrilling battles, supernatural encounters, and encounters with powerful enemies as he strives to become the ultimate samurai.
The modern television anime adaptation premiered in 2025, introducing the classic story to a new generation of viewers with updated animation, enhanced visuals, and contemporary production values.
Season 2: Kaguya Arc Officially Announced
One of the biggest recent developments for the franchise came during AnimeJapan 2026, one of the anime industry’s largest annual events.
At the special stage event titled “Shin Samurai Den YAIBA Season 2: Kaguya Arc Production Announcement!”, held on March 28, 2026, the production team officially revealed a teaser visual for the upcoming Season 2: Kaguya Arc.
The announcement generated considerable excitement among fans, as the Kaguya Arc is expected to adapt one of the manga’s most anticipated storylines. While detailed information regarding the release date and additional cast announcements has yet to be revealed, the teaser visual confirmed that production on the next chapter of the anime is already underway.
A Strong Summer Lineup for Anime Fans
With the addition of both “Captain Tsubasa (Elementary School Arc)” and “Shin Samurai Den YAIBA,” BS12 Twelvi’s Anime 26 block is set to offer viewers a diverse mix of sports drama and action-packed adventure during the Summer 2026 anime season.
“Captain Tsubasa” delivers inspirational soccer action and a nostalgic journey through one of anime’s most influential sports franchises, while “Shin Samurai Den YAIBA” offers high-energy sword battles, comedy, and fantasy adventures from the creator of Detective Conan.
Broadcast Schedule
- Shin Samurai Den YAIBA
- Premiere Date: July 3, 2026
- Broadcast Time: Every Friday on BS12 Twelvi’s Anime 26 block
- Captain Tsubasa (Elementary School Arc)
- Premiere Date: July 6, 2026
- Broadcast Time: Part of BS12 Twelvi’s Anime 26 lineup
Anime fans can look forward to revisiting two beloved classics as they join BS12 Twelvi’s late-night programming this July, offering both nostalgic appeal for longtime fans and an accessible entry point for newcomers discovering these legendary series for the first time.
