Japan's Rugby League One announced on Friday (August 23) that from next season, long-term naturalized players will continue to be registered in the same category as players born in Japan, provided they meet a set of relaxed criteria, including holding Japanese citizenship from at least May 2025.
This decision aims to provide better conditions for players who have been long associated with Japanese rugby, ensuring they are not discriminated against during match registration. Under the new rule, naturalized players must demonstrate continuous Japanese citizenship from May 2025 onward, instead of previous stricter requirements.
Experts view this move as a step forward in integrating and respecting the fairness for foreign players who have long contributed to rugby in the land of the cherry blossom. Japan's League One hopes to attract more talent and retain experienced players amid the increasingly competitive league.
The new rule is expected to officially take effect from the next season, creating a fairer and more transparent playing environment for all participating teams.
