WELLINGTON, New Zealand — The Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU) is contesting a recent decision by Asia Rugby to temporarily suspend Kensuke Iwabuchi, the executive director of JRFU, over allegations of breaching the Code of Conduct. This incident marks a significant dispute between national and regional rugby authorities.
Iwabuchi holds considerable influence in Japan’s rugby landscape, having served as a former international flyhalf and as JRFU chairman. He has notably contributed to the reinstatement of Eddie Jones, an Australian, as the head coach for Japan’s national team.
Recently, Asia Rugby announced that Iwabuchi, who was appointed its vice-president in the latter part of the previous year, has been suspended.
“Adhering to the principles of Equality, Transparency, and Accountability underlying Asia Rugby, and due to the possibility of a breach of the Code of Conduct, the Asia Rugby Executive Committee has decided to suspend Mr. Kensuke Iwabuchi from any duties and responsibilities pending the completion of the investigation,” an Asia Rugby statement declared.
In response, JRFU released a statement on its website affirming its investigation into the decision from Asia Rugby.
“The association has verified that the individual involved has not engaged in actions that contradict Asia Rugby’s principles of equality, transparency, and accountability, and is acting in accordance with the existing Code of Conduct. The association remains committed to contributing actively to the advancement of Asia Rugby,” the JRFU stated.
Asia Rugby comprises 36 national member unions, with Japan being the most prominent. It operates under the guidance of World Rugby.
Japan is currently fostering the expansion of rugby within the Asia region through its highly broadcasted professional Japan League One, which has successfully attracted several of the world’s elite players.
