Kubota Spears confirm that Malcolm Marx will return to South Africa after the 2026/27 season

Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay would like to announce that Malcolm Marx's contract will expire at the end of the 2026-27 season, and he will return to South Africa after the season ends.
Marx will play for Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay in the 2026-27 season and will fight with the team to win the League One championship. Marx has led the team in countless matches and has been a part of the Spears' history. This will be the last season that we can see him playing in Japan.
This will be Marx's final season fighting with the team and the Orange Army. With gratitude for the time we have spent together, we will fight to reach the top.

Comments from Malcolm Marx

To Kubota Corporation, the management, coaches, teammates, and Orange Army of Kubota Spears Funabashi/Tokyo Bay:
I am deeply grateful for the past six years as a member of Kubota Spears. Due to family circumstances, I have made the difficult decision not to renew my contract after the 2026-27 season and to return to South Africa. The time I
spent with Spears was an invaluable experience for me and my family, and I will always cherish it. I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome we received, for being accepted as part of the community, and for the tremendous support and consideration we received during our stay in Japan.
During my time with Kubota Spears, I always gave my best both on and off the field, and acted with pride as a representative of the company and Spears. I am truly grateful for all the opportunities, friendships, and experiences I gained here.
This marks the end of one chapter, but my feelings for Spears remain as strong as ever. I am now fully focused on the upcoming season and will continue to do my best for the team to conclude this journey in the best possible way.
I sincerely hope this is not a "final farewell," and that we will have the opportunity to meet again someday, somewhere. This was by no means an easy decision, but I believe that you will understand and respect my decision. With heartfelt gratitude and respect.

Comments from General Manager Yasuyoshi Maekawa

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.
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 new 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.
To all Orange Army members, we hope you will continue to give your unwavering support to Malcolm during his final season in Japan, as we cherish the many memories we have created together.
Together with the Orange Army, we will cherish each and every game and aim to conclude this special season in the best possible way.