The AJBCC in partnership with KPMG hosted an afternoon of rugby insights during a roundtable event on 9 July 2026 featuring two of the most influential figures in Asian rugby: Kensuke Iwabuchi, Chairman, and Masato Tsuchida, President of the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU).
As Japan marks the historic 100th anniversary of its rugby union, the JRFU has officially launched an ambitious campaign to bring the Rugby World Cup back to Japanese soil in 2035.
Here are the key takeaways from our discussion.
The Legacy of 2019 and the Vision for 2035
The modern blueprint for Japanese rugby remains the wildly successful Rugby World Cup 2019. That tournament exceeded expectations, attracting 1.7 million fans, with nearly 30% travelling from abroad to experience Japan’s world-class hospitality.
Now, the JRFU is aiming to replicate (and exceed) that tournament. President Tsuchida emphasised that a 2035 tournament wouldn’t just be about growing the game domestically; it requires drawing on the “collective strength of all Japan” to deliver the best World Cup ever for the global sporting community.
“No Side Spirit”
During his presentation, President Tsuchida outlined the emotional and philosophical core of Japan’s 2035 campaign: “No Side Spirit.”
“No Side” is a uniquely Japanese rugby concept drawn from the game’s earliest traditions. It encapsulates the mutual respect, deep camaraderie, and genuine friendship shared between all players and fans as soon as the final whistle blows.
President Tsuchida spoke passionately about how vital this concept is in today’s modern society. In a world marked by increasing divisions, disparities, and lines drawn between communities, the “No Side Spirit” represents lines that connect us rather than separate us. It is an unifying message that Japan is eager to share with the world through the game of rugby.
The Roadmap to 2035
The JRFU is wasting no time putting its plans into motion. Here is the official timeline for World Rugby’s host selection process shared during our session:
- Q3 2026: Submission of the detailed applicant questionnaires to World Rugby.
- Late 2026 – Early 2027: Site visits and robust feasibility assessments.
- May 2027: World Rugby will identify its preferred host.
- November 2027: The final, formal host decision will be made by the World Rugby Council.
Good Luck in Newcastle!
We wrapped up our lunch by looking toward immediate challenges on the pitch. The Brave Blossoms are currently in Australia for the brand-new Nations Championship series.
We wish Head Coach Eddie Jones and the entire Japan national team best of luck as they face off against Ireland on 11 July, at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle! It promises to be a thrilling and historic neutral-test encounter.
Thank you once again to Kensuke Iwabuchi, Masato Tsuchida, and everyone who joined us for a memorable afternoon.