Rugby chair mourns 'visionary' who brought World Cup to Asia

World Rugby chair Brett Robinson paid tribute on Tuesday to the late Noboru Mashimo, hailing him as "a visionary" who played a central role in bringing the World Cup to Japan.

We are deeply saddened to share that Noboru “Nobby” Mashimo, former JRFU Chairman and pioneer of rugby in Japan, passed away at age 86.

His legacy shaped the game we know today.

Our heartfelt condolences go to his family.

May he rest in peace ❤️https://t.co/phZdk2IxwJ

— Japan Rugby (@JRFURugby) April 8, 2025

Former Japan Rugby Football Union chairman Mashimo – better known as "Nobby" – died last week aged 86, the JRFU said.

Mashimo was instrumental in Japan staging the 2019 World Cup, the only time it has been played in Asia.

"Nobby was one of the sport's great characters and gentlemen, passionate about the advancement of rugby in Japan and Asia," Robinson said in a statement.

"He was also a visionary, and Nobby should be credited for the enormous role he played to bringing the men's Rugby World Cup to Asia for the first time, paving the way for the sport's advancement on and off the field.

Mashimo, a former referee, held numerous senior posts in Japanese and international rugby.

He was chairman of the JRFU from 2002 to 2011.

"He will be remembered fondly as a titan of Japan and Asia Rugby and his contribution to the game will not be forgotten," Robinson said.