Harlequins' ex-England lock Launchbury to retire

Former England and Harlequins lock Joe Launchbury is to retire from rugby at the end of this season.

The 35-year-old won 70 England caps and was part of the 2016, 2017 and 2020 Six Nations-winning teams, as well as playing at the 2015 and 2019 World Cups.

His final appearance in an England shirt came during the 2022 Six Nations, and while he did not retire from international duty he previously said he was "at peace" with not being in the squad.

Launchbury joined Quins in 2023 and has since made 50 appearances, but has featured just six times this season.

"It has been coming for a while and it is certainly no secret, but the time feels right to step away from rugby at the end of this season," Launchbury said.

"Rugby has given me more than I ever dreamed of. Not just a career, but a life filled with purpose and friendships as well as memories that will stay with me forever.

"It is incredibly difficult to say goodbye, and I know that feeling will never fully leave me. But for me the time is definitely right. I have given my all to my career and my body is telling me it needs a break."

Image caption,

Launchbury burst on to the England scene aged 21 and went on to win 70 caps

Launchbury came through Harlequins' academy before moving to Wasps at the start of his career.

He went on to make 170 appearances and captain the side over a 12-year period, before the club folded in 2023.

After a brief spell playing in Japan for Toyota Verblitz he returned to the Prem with Harlequins.

On the international stage, Launchbury made his England debut in 2012 and a year later was named England player of the year.

He was part of the side that reached the World Cup final in 2019, and won the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2016.

Launchbury, who is currently out with a short-term quad injury, said he would "love to stay involved in the game".

"But for now I am looking forward to what comes next, and most of all being present to watch my children grow up," he added.

Harlequins head coach Jason Gilmore said Launchbury had "consistently set the standard".

"A quality operator on the field and an even better man off it, Joe has consistently set the standard with his exceptional leadership and professionalism," he said.

"His impact for club and country in English rugby over a long period of time in such a demanding position demonstrates what a great servant he has been."