Malcolm Marx Makes Major Career Decision as Springbok Star Prepares to Leave Japan
- Malcolm Marx has explained the family circumstances behind his decision to end his Japanese adventure after the 2026/27 season
- Kubota Spears general manager Hironori Maekawa has provided more insight into the discussions that led to the Springbok's departure
- The World Rugby Player of the Year is preparing for one final campaign with the Japanese club, where he has built an impressive legacy
PAY ATTENTION: Mark Briefly News as a preferred source, and our content will appear higher in your Google feed!
Source: Getty Images
Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx will return to South Africa after the 2026/27 season, ending his six-year association with Japanese club Kubota Spears. The 32-year-old has confirmed that family circumstances influenced his decision not to extend his contract, and the club's management explained how the parties reached an agreement.
The announcement was made on Friday, 30 October 2026. Although his Japanese chapter is nearing its end, Marx has made it clear he intends to give everything to the Spears in his final season.
Malcolm Marx opens up about difficult decision to leave Japan
In a statement published by SA Rugby Magazine, Marx thanked Kubota Corporation, the club's management, coaches, teammates, and supporters, collectively known as the Orange Army. He said:
PAY ATTENTION: You can now search for all your favourite news and topics on Briefly News.
"Due to family circumstances, I have made the difficult decision not to renew my contract beyond the 2026-27 season and to return to South Africa."
The hooker described his six years with the Spears as an invaluable experience for himself and his family. He particularly appreciated how the Japanese community welcomed them and made them feel at home.
Marx also acknowledged that his time at the club had given him more than opportunities to compete professionally.
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships and experiences I have gained along the way," he said.
He explained that he had always attempted to represent Kubota with pride, both on and off the field.
Despite the impending departure, Marx stressed that his commitment to the team remained unchanged. He is concentrating on the upcoming campaign and wants to help the Spears finish their journey together successfully.
He also expressed hope that his departure would not mean a permanent separation from the club and its supporters.
Read also
Mpilo Mbatha Bids Farewell to 'Homecoming’s Shobane Mnisi After First Best Actor Nomination
"I sincerely hope this is not a goodbye forever, but rather a see you again," he said.
Kubota Spears general manager explains Malcolm Marx's departure
General manager Hironori Maekawa offered further insight into the decision, saying the club and Marx had held numerous discussions about his future before agreeing to part ways when his contract expires.
According to Maekawa, the club understood that Marx wanted to spend more time with his family after years of competing at the highest level of international rugby.
He acknowledged that the hooker had carried significant responsibilities while representing both Kubota Spears and the South African national team. Maekawa said:
"We respect Malcolm's desire to spend more time with his family moving forward, having competed at the highest level of world rugby for many years while shouldering significant responsibilities for both the club and the South African national team."
He explained that the agreement would allow both parties to move into their next chapters once the existing contract expires.
The general manager also made it clear that Marx's contribution to the club extended well beyond his performances during matches.
"As one of the world's best players, Malcolm has brought countless victories and memorable moments to this club," Maekawa said.
He specifically highlighted the Springbok's team-first attitude, consideration for his teammates and leadership in consistently maintaining high standards. Maekawa added that Marx's influence had left an invaluable legacy at the club.
Marx's 2025 World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year award was another particularly important achievement for Kubota. The general manager said winning the honour while representing the Spears was a tremendous source of pride for both the organisation and the Orange Army.
Maekawa also thanked Marx for his contribution to the club's development and expressed confidence that he would remain an important figure during his final campaign.
He urged supporters to back the hooker throughout the season, emphasising the club's ambition to make the most of its final campaign with him.
The club's statement below:
Bulls reportedly secure Malcolm Marx signing
Marx joined Kubota in 2021 after leaving NTT Shining Arcs, now known as Urayasu D-Rocks.
During his time in Japan, he scored 41 tries in 68 appearances for the Spears. He helped the club win the Japan Rugby League One title in 2022/23 before reaching the finals in 2024/25 and 2025/26.
SA Rugby Magazine understands that Marx has signed for the Bulls, although the Pretoria franchise has not officially confirmed the reported agreement.
The hooker has also established himself as one of the Springboks' most important players, earning 93 Test caps by 30 October 2026.
His international achievements include being part of the South African teams that won the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
For now, Marx remains focused on his responsibilities in Japan. Kubota Spears will hope to give their departing star a fitting send-off, while South African supporters await his return after the 2026/27 campaign.
Malcolm Marx's salary, net worth and luxury lifestyle
Briefly News previously reported on Malcolm Marx's salary, estimated net worth and lifestyle, with the Springbok hooker's earnings placing him among South Africa's highest-paid rugby players. Published estimates have also offered a glimpse into his property interests and luxury vehicle collection.
As his Japanese chapter nears its end, attention is also turning to the financial rewards of his successful career.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Source: Briefly News
