Springboks star Pieter-Steph du Toit is heading home to South Africa after ending his five-year spell with Japanese club Toyota Verblitz.

The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year has been released from his contract early, with the club confirming his departure on Friday.

Du Toit, 34, has decided to return home to spend more time with his family.

The powerful back-rower joined Toyota Verblitz in 2021 after leaving the Stormers and has been one of the biggest names in Japanese rugby.

Pieter-Steph du Toit leaves Japan

The decision brings an end to five seasons in Japan, although his next club has yet to be confirmed.

According to Rugby365, Du Toit is expected to join his next club after the Nations Championship.

A return to the United Rugby Championship could be an option, with his former club the Stormers among the possible destinations. However, there has been no official announcement or confirmed agreement.

Du Toit remains a key player for Rassie Erasmus as the Springboks build towards the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.

His departure follows similar decisions involving fellow Springboks Malcolm Marx and Kwagga Smith, who are also leaving their Japanese clubs.

For now, Du Toit's next destination remains a mystery, but his return to South Africa will be welcome news for supporters hoping to see him playing domestic rugby again.

Pieter-Steph du Toit: Five things you might not know

• 🏆 Double World Cup winner: Played a key role in South Africa's triumphs in 2019 and 2023.
• 🌍 Twice the world's best: Named World Rugby Men's 15s Player of the Year in both 2019 and 2024.
• 💪 A remarkable comeback: Overcame a career-threatening leg injury in 2020, which raised fears he could lose his leg.
• 👨‍👦 Rugby runs in the family: His father, Pieter, played rugby, while his grandfather was also named Pieter-Steph.
• 🇯🇵 Japanese adventure: Joined Toyota Verblitz in 2022 after previously representing the Sharks and Stormers in South Africa.