Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath have confirmed the signing of former Ireland and Leinster wing James Lowe on a two-year contract.
Lowe, 34, left Irish rugby at the end of the 2025-26 season after failing to agree a contract extension with Leinster, the province he served for nine years and where he scored a record 71 tries. His trophy haul there includes a Champions Cup and six United Rugby Championship titles.
On the international stage, the New Zealand-born back won two Six Nations titles with Ireland, including a Grand Slam, and played at the 2023 World Cup. He earned 45 caps and featured in two Tests for the British and Irish Lions in last year's series victory over the Wallabies in Australia.
The move to Japan raises questions about his international future. Although Ireland head coach Andy Farrell did not shut the door on a return, the Irish Rugby Football Union has not selected an overseas-based player since Johnny Sexton played for Racing 92 in 2015, and Lowe's contract with the Tokyo club runs until 2028 — seemingly ruling him out of next year's World Cup in Australia.
Lowe said he cannot wait to begin the next chapter of his career. "To everyone in the Suntory Sungoliath family, my family and I are incredibly excited to begin this new chapter of our lives in Japan. I have some very special memories from playing there," he said.
"I have always admired the passion for rugby, the respect shown both on and off the field and the pride people take in representing their team. I am looking forward to learning more about Japan and its culture. It is a huge honour to join such a prestigious club."
He added: "I will do everything I can to earn the trust of my team-mates, coaches and supporters. I want to bring energy, physicality and a positive attacking mindset to the team. I can't wait to get stuck in! I can't wait to meet you all! Yatte Minahare [Go for it],"
Lowe joins Suntory as a replacement for South Africa World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe, who has rejoined the Stormers, handing the Japanese club a marquee signing ahead of the 2026-27 season.
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