The Japan Rugby Union won't be renewing John Kirwan's contract after the team's failure to end a 20-year wait for a second World Cup victory.
The Japanese had targeted two wins at the tournament, and despite their spirit, their best result was a draw with Canada, leaving officals frustrated with their lack of progress as they build towards hosting the 2019 tournament.
The chairman of the Japan Rugby Union Tatsuzo Yabe publicly apologised to the team's fans for not meeting their expectations, and promised to start rebuilding plans as soon as they return home.
John Kirwan was praised for improving the quality and confidence of the national team during his four-year term.
