James Lowe joins Suntory Sungoliath, ends Ireland career

Ireland and British and Irish Lions winger James Lowe has signed a two-year contract with Japanese club Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath, the team confirmed on Monday, July 27, 2026. The move sees the 34-year-old replace departing Springbok star Cheslin Kolbe and effectively ends his international career, ruling him out of next year's Rugby World Cup in Australia.

Lowe, who was born in New Zealand but qualified for Ireland on residency, leaves Irish rugby after a protracted contract negotiation with Leinster. During his time with the province, he made 102 appearances, playing a key role in their 2018 Champions Cup victory and their most recent United Rugby Championship title. He earned 45 caps for Ireland, contributing to Six Nations championship wins in 2023 and 2024, and was part of the British and Irish Lions squad that toured Australia.

In a statement released on the club's website, Lowe expressed his excitement about the move. "To everyone in the Suntory Sungoliath family, my family and I are incredibly excited to begin this new chapter of our lives in Japan," he said. "I have always admired the passion for rugby, the respect shown both on and off the field, and the pride people...