Growth Conference Returning to Fukuoka, Japan

World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in Conjunction with Asia Rugby

Asia Rugby is pleased to announce that the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in conjunction with Asia Rugby will be held in Fukuoka, Japan, on 28–29 September 2026, bringing together rugby development leaders from across the region.

The conference marks a return to Fukuoka, which previously hosted the Growth Conference in 2018 in the lead-up to the landmark Rugby World Cup 2019. The city’s strong rugby legacy and world-class facilities make it an ideal location to once again convene stakeholders focused on advancing the game across Asia.

Hosted at JAPAN BASE, the event will welcome representatives from Asia Rugby Member Unions, World Rugby, and regional development teams.

The Growth Conference 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, said:

The Growth Conference to 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.

Naofumi Yasui, Chief Development Officer (CDO) and Head of Rugby Development Division.

“On behalf of the Japan Rugby Football Union, we are delighted to host the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in conjunction with Asia Rugby at JAPAN BASE (Fukuoka), our hub for high performance and player development and game production.

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.”

Mr. Ghaith Jalajel, Acting CEO of Asia Rugby, Said:

“We are delighted to host the World Rugby Growth Conference 2026 in Fukuoka, Japan, an ideal location with a strong rugby legacy. This event is a critical strategic focus for Asia Rugby to strengthen collaboration, exchange best practices, and drive the sustainable growth of the game across the region..”

Further details regarding the conference program, participant nominations, and logistical arrangements will be shared with Member Unions in due course.