Eddie Jones suspended by Japan rugby football union for inappropriate remarks
Former England rugby head coach Eddie Jones has been suspended by the Japan Rugby Football Union after admitting to making inappropriate remarks to match officials during a tour of Australia, reports BritPanorama.
The 66-year-old, who is currently in his second tenure as head coach for Japan, also faces a salary reduction as part of this disciplinary action. He will be barred from carrying out his coaching duties for six weeks, missing training sessions and matches until June 5.
This suspension follows incidents that occurred during Japan Under-23’s tour of Australia from April 1 to April 15. The Japanese Rugby Football Union stated that Jones directed verbal abuse towards local match officials, leading to the initiation of disciplinary proceedings under their ethics and conduct regulations.
In a statement, Jones accepted responsibility for his actions and apologised. “I accept the disciplinary action of the JRFU relating to the U23 Japan National Team tour of Australia,” he said. He acknowledged that his “inappropriate remarks” had caused discomfort to officials and others involved, expressing regret and a commitment to avoid such behaviour in the future.
In addition to the suspension, the governing body confirmed a pay reduction for Jones, although the exact financial penalty has not been disclosed. This timing is notable, as Japan continues preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, which will take place in Jones’ native Australia.
During the six-week suspension, Jones is expected to miss four matches, including two fixtures involving a Japan Select side against Hong Kong China Select at the end of May, a match against the Māori All Blacks on June 27, and the Brave Blossoms’ encounter with Italy in Tokyo on July 4.
The JRFU stated, “Disciplinary measures will be taken against Eddie Jones in accordance with the JRFU’s Ethics and Disciplinary Regulations.” The suspension and salary reduction were agreed upon by Jones, who accepted the punishment.
After his suspension, Jones will return to active duty on June 5, when he is slated to oversee Japan’s match against Ireland on July 11, as the team ramps up its preparations for the upcoming World Cup. Jones had previously managed England from 2015 to 2022, leading them to the 2019 World Cup final before his dismissal in late 2022.
In a sport increasingly scrutinized for its conduct, Jones’ situation serves as a reminder that accountability extends beyond the pitch. With tensions high in the lead-up to the World Cup, the stakes have never been clearer.
