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Timothy Lafaele discusses rule change impacting Japan rugby players

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 30, 2026, 7:17 AM

Last updated Jul 30, 2026

Timothy Lafaele discusses rule change impacting Japan rugby players

Summary

Timothy Lafaele, a player for Japan’s national rugby team, addressed concerns over new eligibility rules that will classify him and other foreign-born players as foreigners. This change, effective in December, may limit their playing opportunities in Japan Rugby League One, favoring Japan-born players instead. Lafaele, a Samoan-born athlete, has represented Japan 28 times, including a significant win over Ireland in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. The ongoing immigration debate in Japan is also influencing these changes. Lafaele expressed sadness over the situation, highlighting that some players might be forced into retirement due to uncertainties regarding their futures in the league.

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Key Details

•Lafaele played 28 times for Japan, including in the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
•New rules classify certain foreign-born players as foreigners starting December.
•Players fear loss of opportunities in the professional league.
•Lafaele supports boosting Japan-born player participation.
•A lawsuit involving 24 players is pending in Japanese courts.

Latest Updates

7:17 AMYahoo Sports — Timothy Lafaele was a star for Japan at the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Now he's not sure he belongs

What they're saying

"
Timothy Lafaele is among the rugby players who have made their lives and playing careers in Japan, and hold Japanese passports even though they were born outside the country. In Lafaele's case, he has played 28 times for Japan's national team, including a monumental victory over Ireland in the 2019 Rugby World Cup, which Japan hosted.
— Yahoo Sportsby STEPHEN WADE

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