Eddie Jones, the head coach of Japan's national rugby team, has been handed a six-week suspension and a salary reduction for engaging in "verbal abuse" directed at local officials. The incidents occurred during the U23 Japan national team's tour of Australia last month. The ban, effective from April 24 to June 5, will see Jones miss four matches, including the Nations Championship opener against Italy on July 4.
The sanctions, imposed by the Japan Rugby Football Union (JRFU), stem from "inappropriate remarks" Jones made that caused "discomfort" to match officials and others involved. Jones has accepted the disciplinary action and issued an apology. "I take this disciplinary action very seriously," he stated. "I apologise to everyone involved, and I deeply regret my words and actions."
Scope of the Ban and Missed Fixtures
Jones's six-week suspension sidelines him from direct involvement in team duties until June 5. This period encompasses several key fixtures, including two Japan select team matches against Hong Kong on May 22 and May 29, and a Japan XV game against the Māori All Blacks on June 27. The final match of his ban will be the Nations Championship opener against Italy in Tokyo on July 4, where he will be barred from taking charge.
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The JRFU deemed the breach of conduct serious enough to warrant both the suspension and a reduction in salary, a decision Jones has accepted. The tour in Australia, where the incidents are reported to have taken place, ran between April 1 and April 15.
A Pattern of Controversy
This is not the first time Eddie Jones, an Australian, has been associated with disciplinary issues or controversial incidents during his coaching career. His tenure has frequently been marked by headlines beyond the usual sporting results. He is currently in his second spell as head coach of Japan.
