Asia Rugby suspends Japan Rugby's Executive Director

Asia Rugby, the governing body of rugby union in Asia, has suspended its Vice President and Japan Rugby Football Union’s Executive Director Kensuke Iwabuchi.

Asia Rugby made the announcement on its website on Monday with a short statement: “In line with Asia Rugby principles of Equality, Transparency and Accountability; and due to a potential Code of Conduct breach, Asia Rugby Executive Committee has decided to suspend Mr Kensuke Iwabuchi – Asia Rugby Vice President from any duties and responsibilities until the pending investigation is concluded.” 

The Tokyo-born former Japan international, 49, was appointed as Asia Rugby’s Vice President in November 2024.

A JRFU spokesperson commented on the news to Japanese daily sports newspaper Sports Nippon: “We are currently confirming the details with Asia Rugby.”