Malcolm Marx has confirmed that he will leave Japanese club Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo-Bay at the end of the 2026/27 season.

The double World Cup-winning Springboks hooker has confirmed that he will be returning to South Africa in June 2027 after opting not to extend his contract at the Japan Rugby League One club.

While he has not disclosed which South African team he will be joining, he has been linked with a move to the Sharks and Bulls. If he were to link up with the latter, he would be reunited with Johan Ackermann, whom he played for during his time at the Lions.

Meanwhile, the Sharks could be in the market for a marquee hooker after terminating Bongi Mbonambi’s contract, allowing the front rower to rejoin the Stormers.

Malcolm Marx confirms South African return

Marx has spent the past six years in Japan, first signing for the Shining Arcs before moving to the Kubota Spears in 2021, with whom he won the Japan Rugby League One title in 2023, and finished as runners-up last season to the Dave Rennie-coached Kobe Steelers.

“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Kubota Corporation and the entire Kubota Spears family for the six years I have spent with the club,” Marx said in a statement confirming his departure at the end of the season.

“Unfortunately, due to family reasons, I have made the difficult decision not to extend my contract beyond the 2026/27 season and will be returning to South Africa. My time with the Spears has been a memorable experience for both me and my family, one that we will always treasure and look back on with fond memories.

“Thank you for always making us feel at home, for welcoming us into your community, and for the care and support you have shown us throughout our time in Japan. During my time at Kubota, I have always tried to give my very best, both on and off the field, and to represent the company and the Spears with pride. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships and experiences I have gained along the way.

“Although this chapter is coming to an end, my commitment to the Spears remains as strong as ever. I am fully focused on the upcoming season and will continue to give everything I have to the team, with the goal of finishing this journey on a high note.

“I sincerely hope this is not a goodbye forever, but rather a see you again. I trust that you will understand and respect my decision, which has not been an easy one to make. With sincere appreciation and respect, Malcolm Marx.”

Kubota pays tribute to World Rugby Player of the Year

Kubota Spears’ general manager Yasuyoshi Maekawa added: “We regret to announce that Malcolm Marx will be returning to South Africa upon the expiration of his contract in June 2027.

“As one of the world’s top players, Malcolm has brought countless victories and unforgettable moments to this club. His exceptional play, team-first attitude, consideration for his teammates, and consistently high-standard leadership have left a great asset to the club.

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“Furthermore, his winning the World Rugby Men’s 15 Player of the Year award as a member of the Spears is a source of great pride for both the club and the Orange Army. The club and Malcolm have held numerous discussions regarding his future. In the end, we have respected Malcolm’s desire to spend more time with his family, after competing at the highest level in the world for many years and bearing great responsibility for both the club and the South African national team.

“Therefore, upon the expiration of his contract, we have decided that he will move on to the next stage in his life. We are deeply grateful for his dedication to the development of the club and our expectations for the remaining season are growing ever higher. Malcolm remains an indispensable part of the team, and we believe that he will powerfully lead the team with his passion and experience in his final season.”