Notice of Disciplinary Action Relating to Japan Head Coach in Accordance with the JRFU’s Ethics and Disciplinary Regulations

Following an independent disciplinary process, the Japan Rugby Football Union hereby announces that disciplinary measures will be taken against Eddie Jones, Head Coach of the Japan Men’s National Team in accordance with the JRFU’s Ethics and Disciplinary Regulations. These measures relate to incidences of verbal abuse directed at local match officials during the Japan U23 National Team tour of Australia, which took place between April 1 to 15, 2026.

As a result, the Head Coach will be barred from attending or taking any part in the following four Men’s Squad matches.

22 May 2026: Japan Select v Hong Kong China Select
29 May 2026: Japan Select v Hong Kong China Select
27 June 2026: JAPAN XV v Māori All Blacks
4 July 2026: Japan v Italy

In addition to the above disciplinary measures, in light of the seriousness of this matter, the JRFU has already decided, based on the contract with him, to impose a salary reduction on him and to suspend him from his duties as Head Coach of the Japan national team for 6 weeks (from April 24 to June 5), and Eddie Jones accepted this decision.

Japan Head Coach Eddie Jones:
“I accept the disciplinary action of the JRFU relating to the U23 Japan National Team tour of Australia. Some inappropriate remarks that I made caused discomfort to local match officials and other related parties. I would like to offer my sincere apologies to everyone involved. I deeply regret my behaviour and words and will make every effort to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.”