World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 To Take Place in Japan

Asia Rugby has confirmed that the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 will be held in Fukuoka, Japan, from 28–29 September 2026. The event will welcome representatives from Asia Rugby Member Unions, World Rugby, and regional development teams.

Fukuoka previously hosted the Growth Conference in 2018 and offers world-class facilities at JAPAN BASE. Asia Rugby said the event “serves as a key strategic platform to align development priorities, exchange best practices, and strengthen collaboration across unions, supporting sustainable growth of rugby throughout Asia.”

Mr. Mohammad Jarkou, Chairperson of the Asia Rugby Development Committee, commented, “The World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in Fukuoka reflects the importance of collaboration and shared vision in advancing rugby across Asia. This conference provides a valuable platform for aligning development priorities, sharing expertise, and strengthening cooperation among our Member Unions. Asia Rugby looks forward to working closely with World Rugby and our Member Unions to drive sustainable growth, and long-term Development Pathway.”

JRFU’s Naofumi Yasui, Chief Development Officer (CDO) and Head of Rugby Development Division, added, “As the host union, we look forward to strengthening our relationships with the participating unions across Asia and will work closely with World Rugby and Asia Rugby to ensure that this conference is a meaningful and successful one.”

They said that additional details regarding the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 program, participant nominations, and logistical arrangements will be shared with Member Unions.

Hong Kong will host the WXV Global Series Challenger 2026 from 13 September to 26 September 2026, so the conference will take place immediately afterwards.

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