JAPAN RUGBY LEAGUE ONE
In the final match of the 2025-26 Division 1 season, Mie Honda Heat defeated Toyota Verblitz 38-26 at the Suzuka Sports Garden on May 9, 2026. The game marked the end of an era for the Heat, who have called Suzuka home for 65 years.
As the 80-minute horn sounded and Toyota Verblitz’s Mark Telea knocked the ball forward, the referee signaled the end of the match. The score stood at 38-26, and the Mie Honda Heat closed out their final game at Suzuka with a victory.
“It’s truly wonderful that we could win the last game against Toyota V, especially with all the fans who have supported us over the years,” said Takuro Hojo with a quiet smile after the ceremony. Hojo joined the team from Tenri University in 2024, quickly earning playing time and eventually being appointed as backs leader. However, he suffered a left ankle fracture twice—once in February 2024 and again in November 2024—keeping him off the official field for 461 days.
When asked about his greatest memory at Suzuka, Hojo laughed and said, “It would have to be the injury.” But then he added, “However, it’s a good memory. I had the chance to talk with many people and learn a lot. In a way, it was a very meaningful time.” During his first injury, he felt mentally down and couldn’t even watch matches. With support from teammates like Hayata Nakao, he gradually started looking forward. By his second absence, he said, “My mental state didn’t waver at all.”
Hojo returned as a starter from the 16th round, then started two consecutive matches. In this game, he showed no signs of his past injuries, even scoring a try in the 19th minute by taking advantage of a chaotic situation. His performance demonstrated both physical and mental growth.
After the match, countless fireworks lit up the night sky over Suzuka. Hojo, who soaked in the scene with the fans known as “HEATERs,” expressed his gratitude for the support he received at Suzuka.
“I’m really glad we could show our appreciation with a win. Even after moving to Utsunomiya, I believe the support from Suzuka fans will still reach us. I would be very happy if they continue to fight alongside us.”
The team will relocate to Utsunomiya City in Tochigi Prefecture next season. With a full smile, Hojo shared his excitement for the new chapter: “I love motorcycles, so I want to ride around various places in Utsunomiya. The people in Tochigi have created a very welcoming environment, and I’ll work even harder at rugby!”
From a smooth debut to injury struggles, growth, and revival—carrying the experiences built in Suzuka, Hojo is ready to race into a new journey in Utsunomiya.
(Kagami Nobuaki)
**Head Coach’s Comments**
“It was a game that completely changed between the first and second halves. We played well in the first half, but in the second half, Toyota V held possession, we lost momentum, and we couldn’t escape our own half for long periods. However, the defensive effort we showed was incredible. We made over 140 tackles compared to their 67. The players embodied the spirit of putting their bodies on the line for their teammates.
While it’s disappointing to miss the playoff tournament by just 5 points, I’m proud that we finished 8th—the club’s best result in Division 1—and proud of the performance the entire team showed to achieve that.”
“What will be needed for the 2026-27 season’s goal of winning the championship?”
“The team has shown real growth over the past few years, not just this season. But success takes time. Teams like Saitama Panasonic Wild Knights, Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay, and Kobelco Kobe Steelers have long-serving players who form the core of their teams.
As for next season, unfortunately, I won’t be here. The players who remain and those who join will set the goals. However, the foundation is in place for continued progress after the move to Utsunomiya, and we’re in a good position. All I can say is that tonight’s performance was truly outstanding, and I want to thank all the fans in Suzuka for their unwavering support.
Although it hasn’t been officially announced, I will be leaving the team. Mie Honda Heat informed me that my contract will not be renewed and that they are moving in a different direction next season. It’s disappointing, but that’s life. Finally, let me say: Thank you very much for three years. I am deeply grateful for all your support.”
**Player Comments**
“Regarding the game, I have a similar impression to the head coach. The start and the first half were very good, especially the first 30 minutes, where our execution was excellent. That was due to the players’ great effort. The second half didn’t go as planned, but the first half gave us enough lead to hold on.
It’s disappointing we fell just short of our goal, but this final match was earned by over 65 players, and I’m very proud. From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank the Mie fans for 65 years of incredible support. Even after moving to Tochigi, Mie Prefecture and Suzuka will always be our origin. Because you supported us, we can give our best in Tochigi. We will continue to play representing the spirit of Mie.”
**Head Coach of Toyota Verblitz**
“It was a very difficult and disappointing match. There were many decisions in the first half that I felt were unfair to our players. One thing I find regrettable in Japan is the standard of refereeing. To improve rugby in this country, the system itself needs improvement. I also want to praise Mie Honda Heat—they showed great spirit in their final home game at Suzuka.
Our players showed strong will in the second half, outscoring them 26-7 and trying to come back. So the game was clearly split between the first and second halves. However, there was also a try disallowed due to an obstruction call, which was very frustrating.
Since this is my final season with the team, I’ll say this openly: Japanese rugby needs better refereeing to truly grow. I strongly urge League One and the Japan Rugby Football Union to address this. I know this kind of statement may not be common in Japanese culture, but I say it because I care deeply about Japanese rugby and the Toyota V players.”
“Is TMO also in need of improvement?”
“Looking at world rugby as a whole, I think TMO takes too much time. It was supposed to reduce errors, but its influence has become too large. It needs to be simplified. I understand rugby is a complex sport and difficult to officiate, which is why simplification is needed. Better education leads to better results and referee performances.”
**Toyota Verblitz Player Comments**
“It was a very tough game. In the first half, we were on the back foot, and Mie Honda put good pressure on us. In the second half, we talked about ‘regaining our pride’ and just enjoyed playing simple rugby. As the head coach said, our rugby changed significantly between halves. The second half showed what Toyota V rugby is about, and we want to carry that into next season.”
“Being game captain for the first time, what did you feel was needed in the tough first half?”
“We knew the opponent would come with momentum, so instead of absorbing it, we should have countered with even stronger momentum. As game captain, I should have communicated more with the referee. However, it was a very good experience for the future.”
Even injuries become “good memories.” The meaning of 461 days shown at the last Suzuka game.
