Japan Rugby League One wrap-up: International stars shine ahead of Rugby World Cup 2027

The fifth season of NTT Japan Rugby League One concluded on 7 June with Kobe Steelers defeating Spears Tokyo-Bay 22-13 before a crowd of 50,451 at Tokyo's MUFG Stadium, claiming their first League One title and third national championship overall. Captain Brodie Retallick was named competition MVP after finishing as the season's leading try-scorer with 17 tries. Head coach Dave Rennie, whose departure was already confirmed ahead of a role with the All Blacks, was joined in leaving the club by Ardie Savea and Anton Lienert-Brown.