James Lowe has confirmed he will leave Leinster at the end of the season, ending a nine-year stint in Irish rugby. The 33-year-old New Zealand-born winger acknowledged that "not everyone gets their fairytale ending" as he prepares to depart.
Lowe joined Leinster in 2017 and became the club's all-time leading try scorer with 71 tries in 101 appearances. He qualified for Ireland through the three-year residency rule and earned 45 caps, debuting in 2020. During his international career, he helped Ireland win two Six Nations titles, including the 2023 Grand Slam, and represented the British and Irish Lions in last year's series win over Australia.
With Leinster, Lowe won five United Rugby Championship/PRO14 titles and the 2018 Champions Cup. His final game for the province is expected to be the URC final against the Bulls at Croke Park on June 19.
Lowe had been expected to sign a new contract, according to Ireland head coach Andy Farrell, but instead is strongly linked with a move to Japan's Suntory Sungoliath. Moving to Japan would likely end his Ireland career due to the IRFU's policy of not selecting players based abroad.
In an emotional statement, Lowe reflected on his time in Ireland: "This country has not only shaped me, it has shaped my career, our family and given us friendship that we will have for the rest of our lives." He also acknowledged the criticism of being a "project player" but said representing Ireland 45 times was "the greatest honour of my life."
"All I ever wanted to do when I was a kid was play international rugby. You trusted me, and to represent you 45 times is the greatest honour of my life."
Lowe's departure comes as a blow to Leinster and Ireland, who will lose a key attacking threat and experienced leader.