Ireland and Leinster winger James Lowe agrees deal with new club
- Reason for Shaun Edwards’ France departure emerge in local media - June 12, 2026
- The real reason James Lowe’s contract negotiations broke down has emerged - June 12, 2026
- Former Ireland international named new Munster attack coach - June 9, 2026
Done deal.
James Lowe is set to bring his nine-year spell in Irish rugby to an end after agreeing a move to Japanese side Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, according to The 42.
The Ireland and Leinster wing is expected to join the club on a two-year deal ahead of next season, bringing the curtain down on one of the most successful overseas signings in Irish rugby history.
The news comes just weeks after reports emerged that Lowe would be leaving Leinster when his current contract expires this summer. While clubs in England and France had also shown interest, it now appears Japan will be the 33-year-old’s next destination.
Lowe had previously spoken about his desire to remain in Ireland and target the 2027 Rugby World Cup, describing the tournament as his “north star”. However, contract negotiations failed to produce an agreement, with reports suggesting he was offered a one-year extension on significantly reduced terms.
According to The 42, the Ireland international was left frustrated not only by the offer itself but also by how the negotiation process unfolded. Lowe was never on a central IRFU contract during his time in Ireland, instead receiving support through the Player of National Interest (PONI) system.
It is understood that contribution was reduced during the latest negotiations.
His departure is likely to bring an end to his Ireland career too. While the IRFU’s policy on overseas-based players remains unwritten, players who leave the Irish system are generally no longer considered for international selection, making Lowe’s hopes of reaching the 2027 World Cup increasingly unlikely.
The move will be a major loss for both Leinster and Ireland. Since arriving from the Chiefs in 2017, Lowe has become one of the most influential backs in the game, helping Leinster win multiple trophies while establishing himself as a key figure under Andy Farrell.
He recently became Leinster’s all-time leading try scorer, a fitting milestone before what now looks set to be his final chapter in blue.
