Quins’ ex-England lock Launchbury to retire from rugby

Harlequins’ veteran lock Joe Launchbury is to retire from rugby at the end of this season.

The 35-year-old, who played for England 70 times, signed for Harlequins in 2023, having previously been an academy player at the club before a 12-year spell at Wasps.

He 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.”