Players sue Japan rugby league over eligibility rules

1 min read

Japan's professional rugby competition has long provided Australian players with shorter seasons, generous salaries and extended careers abroad. That pathway is now at risk after 24 players launched legal action against Japan Rugby League One over new eligibility rules they say discriminate against foreign-born players, including naturalised Japanese citizens who have represented Japan internationally. The lawsuit creates legal uncertainty for clubs and overseas players and could prompt courts or regulators to review league policy. If upheld, the rules could alter talent flows and contract decisions for foreign players considering Japan's competition.

Twenty-four players sued Japan Rugby League One over eligibility rules