James Lowe linked with move to Japan after announcing departure from Leinster

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Published: Tue 9 Jun 2026, 2:47 PM

Last updated: Tue 9 Jun 2026, 3:12 PM

Kenneth Fox

After nine seasons, former New Zealand winger James Lowe has announced he will be leaving Leinster.

Lowe, who won 45 caps for Ireland, has been linked with a move to Japanese side Suntory Sungoliath.

In a post on Instagram, the 33-year-old - who moved to Leinster from his native New Zealand in 2017 - said the decision came with a "heavy heart", also saying that "not everyone gets their fairytale ending".

He departs the province as their record try scorer with 71 tries in 101 appearances.

Leinster Rugby posted on X saying: "With 71 tries in 101 appearances, he leaves as our record try-scorer and a true-blue legend. Let's give Lowey the send-off he deserves at the URC Grand Final! Thank you for everything."

Lowe will play his final game for Leinster on June 19th at Croke Park when they defend their URC title against the Vodacom Bulls.

In a statement on Instagram, Lowe said: "Man, where do I begin?"

"Nine years. Nine unforgettable seasons.

"I find it difficult to put into words what Ireland means to me. It’s become so much more than a place of work. It’s become our home.

"This country has not only shaped me, it has also shaped my career, our family, and given us friendships that we will have for the rest of our lives.

"When I first arrived in Ireland, I had no idea what I was getting into. I was extremely naive and full of excitement, not knowing where this journey would take me.

"I just had a point to prove. You trusted me, and to represent you 45 times is the greatest rugby honour of my life.

"I never took it for granted. I understood the criticism that would follow, but I want you to know that every time I pulled on that jersey, it filled me with an immense amount of pride.

"Thank you. Unfortunately, not everyone gets their fairytale ending. This decision comes with a heavy heart.

"I love Ireland. I call it home. But sometimes rugby takes you on journeys you don’t expect. A new chapter awaits us, and that doesn’t make saying goodbye any easier."