Japan Rugby League One: Season preview - Richie Mo'unga and Brave Lupus chase historic third title in a row

Between them, the two giants have won 13 titles since Japan adopted a nationwide league format in 2003, and they’ve dominated League One since its 2021 relaunch—collectively taking three of the four championships and winning 117 of 146 matches. But 2024-25 proved that nothing is guaranteed; the Wild Knights missed the final for the first time after suffering more setbacks last season than in their previous three campaigns combined.

Brave Lupus begin as favourites again, spearheaded by Richie Mo’unga, who is chasing an unprecedented title hat-trick. But the margins in Japan remain razor thin—the widest winning margin in any Division One final is just five points—and offseason change adds fresh intrigue. Coach Todd Blackadder has lost young star Warner Dearns to the Hurricanes on loan, while hooker Mamoru Harada switches to Moana Pasifika.

Across the aisle, Saitama launch a new era under head coach Atsushi Kanazawa, with legendary duo Shota Horie and Berrick Barnes joining the staff following the departure of five-time champion Robbie Deans.

The league’s international pull has never been stronger. Ardie Savea returns to Kobe Steelers alongside Anton Lienert-Brown, while recent World Rugby Players of the Year Pieter-Steph du Toit (Toyota Verblitz) and Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears) headline a star-studded cast. Mark Telea, Semi Radradra, Tevita Ikanivere, Lukanyo Am, Shaun Stevenson and others ensure that global firepower is spread across all contenders.

Coaching talent has flooded in too, with Graham Rowntree taking charge at Urayasu D-Rocks and Leon MacDonald arriving at Yokohama Eagles.

Division Two is equally energised, highlighted by Manie Libbok, Peter Umaga-Jensen, and Akira Ioane joining Hanazono Kintetsu Liners, while Noah Lolesio and Christian Leali’ifano bolster Toyota Shuttles Aichi. With more than 50 capped internationals involved and a six-team playoff returning, Japan Rugby League One is shaping up for its most competitive—and compelling—season yet.