Jack Dempsey to Depart Glasgow Warriors for Japan
Jack Dempsey, capped 23 times for Scotland since 2022, is set to leave Glasgow Warriors this summer after agreeing to join a club in Japan.
The Scotland number eight was a standout performer during the Six Nations, delivering impressive displays in victories over England and France. However, this upcoming move casts uncertainty over his future with the national team.
With the Japanese domestic season running from December to May, it remains unclear whether Dempsey will be available for the November fixtures of the Nations Championship.
He is also unlikely to participate in the 2027 Six Nations unless Scottish Rugby can negotiate a release from his club commitments to allow him to play in the tournament.
Any absence from international matches could affect his chances of selection for Gregor Townsend's squad for the Rugby World Cup next year.
Dempsey's national teammate George Turner did not feature for Scotland during his year in Japan playing for Kobelco Kobe Steelers, only returning to the national team after joining English side Harlequins last summer.
It is understood that terms had largely been agreed on a new contract for Dempsey to remain at Scotstoun beyond this season.
However, the length of the deal became a sticking point in negotiations, and Dempsey, who turns 32 next month, has opted to accept a lucrative offer to play rugby in Japan.
He was a key figure in Glasgow's United Rugby Championship title win in 2024 and has established himself as Scotland's undisputed first-choice number eight since switching allegiance from his native Australia, for whom he earned 14 caps, in 2022.
Dempsey is among several high-profile departures from the Warriors squad this summer, with Huw Jones and Adam Hastings both moving to France to join Toulon and Montpellier respectively.
