Eddie Jones suspended by Japan and docked pay after abusing match officials

The former England and Australia boss returned for a second stint in charge of the nation at the start of 2024 and is set to lead them into next year’s Rugby World Cup.

The 66-year-old will miss four national team fixtures, though, after a ban was levied following incidents during an U23 tour to Australia in April. Those four matches include the start of Japan’s Nations Championship campaign against Italy in Tokyo on 4 July.

Jones has also received a six-week ban from all activity as Japan head coach, and had his salary reduced by the JRFU.

“I accept the disciplinary action of the JRFU relating to the U23 Japan National Team tour of Australia,” Jones said in an apologetic statement. “Some inappropriate remarks that I made caused discomfort to local match officials and other related parties.

I would like to offer my sincere apologies to everyone involved. I deeply regret my behaviour and words and will make every effort to ensure that this doesn’t happen again.”

Jones previously led Japan to an upset victory over South Africa at the 2015 World Cup before taking up his role with England a year later. Under his coaching, England reached the final of the 2019 tournament.

His side have been drawn alongside France, the United States and Samoa in Pool E at next year’s tournament in his native Australia.

Click here to read article