JRFU Announcement on RWC 2035 Host Nation Selection Process

Following World Rugby’s recent announcement on the Rugby World Cup 2035 host selection process, the Japan Rugby Football Union has announced its intention to take part in the process as outlined below.

World Rugby’s RWC2035 Host Selection Timeline
October 2025: Launch of expressions of interest
Q3 2026: Submission of detailed applicant questionnaires
Late 2026 – early 2027: Site visits and feasibility assessments
May 2027: Identification of preferred host
November 2027: Formal appointment by World Rugby Council

Japan Rugby Football Union Timeline (Provisional)
October–November 2025: Examination of application documentation and requirements. Final JRFU Board deliberation on agreement to proceed with application.
December 2025: Expression of interest submitted to World Rugby
January 2026 onwards: Preparation of the detailed application
Third quarter of 2026: Submission of the detailed application to World Rugby

Commenting on the announcement, JRFU Chairman Kensuke Iwabuchi said:
“The Japan Rugby Football Union wishes to bring the Rugby World Cup back to Japan in the near future. Following World Rugby’s announcement of the host selection process for the Men’s Rugby World Cup 2035, we will now commence the necessary preparations and deliberations.
“The World Cup is not an event we as the JRFU can host solely through our own efforts. We would need to draw on the collective strength of all Japan, with the cooperation, understanding and commitment of people from all corners of the nation.
“Together with all our stakeholders, we will carefully consider whether RWC2035 can be realised in a suitable manner, not only for the benefit of the rugby world, but for the wider sporting community and for Japan itself. We will then move forward with the necessary procedures, and we earnestly request the continued support of all concerned parties.”