Japan women's team flies in economy class while men go in business

From online dispatches

Japan's Homare Sawa (2nd L) reacts with her teammates after scoring a goal against Australia during their women's friendly soccer match in Tokyo July 11, 2012. REUTERS Photo

Japan Women's Football team flew to Paris in premium economy class for a friendly match ahead of the Olympics while the men's team was arranged to fly in business class, the BBC has reported.

The women's team members, who are considered strong contenders for gold, were disappointed by the situation, according to reports.

"I guess it should have been the other way around," said Homare Sawa, a women’s team member who is taking part in the Olympics for the fourth time.

The women player's plane tickets were reportedly upgraded to premium economy class by the Japan Football Association. The men have been flying business class since 1996.