Former England international and current Harlequins forward Joe Launchbury will retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season, bringing the curtain down on a decorated career.
Devon-native Launchbury spent the bulk of his career with Wasps, making 132 appearances for the club before their administration in 2022. Since then, he had a brief stint in Japan with Toyota Verblitz, before returning to England with Harlequins. Since making his debut for the Londoners, Launchbury has made 32 appearances in the famous quarters.
He also enjoyed a strong Test career with England, winning 70 Test caps between 2012 and 2022, helping the side win three Six Nations titles, including the 2016 Grand Slam, and reach the 2019 Rugby World Cup Final.
‘It’s a career I look back on with hugely fond memories’
Commenting on his decision to retire, Launchbury said: “It’s a career I look back on with hugely fond memories, I’ve loved every minute of it.
“I’ll miss the competing. I love the forming of teams and what makes teams successful, and how you can turn a loss into a win. I’ll miss striving to get better both individually and as a team. I can hand on heart say that pretty much every single day I’ve walked into the building and looked forward to coming to work.
“Thank you to all the coaches who have been a big part of my career, the guys who picked me, dropped me, but most importantly, had a desire to make me a better player. The supporters are the heartbeat of this game and the people who love rugby, and this amazing sport that we all love. Lastly, and most importantly, thank you so much to my family for everything you have done.”
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England head coach, Steve Borthwick, added: “Joe has given a huge amount to English rugby over a long period of time. First and foremost, he’s been an excellent player, but also a leader through his actions — incredibly hard-working and someone who has shown real resilience throughout his career. We wish him and his family all the very best for what comes next.”
Also commenting, Harlequins head coach Jason Gilmore said: “Joe is an incredible man who has enjoyed fantastic career, and we feel privileged to have had him here at The Stoop for his final chapter. What he has brought to this group goes far beyond what you see on the pitch at the weekend.
“His standards, professionalism and willingness to give time to the younger players in this squad is testament to him as a player and his character.
“When you look at what Joe has achieved – 70 caps for England, two World Cups, three Six Nations titles – you are talking about one of the great servants of English rugby.
“On behalf of everyone at the Club, I want to thank Joe for everything he has given to Harlequins and wish him and his young family the best of luck in their next chapter.”