Former England international lock Joe Launchbury will retire at the end of this season.
The 35-year-old won 70 caps for his country between 2012 and 2022, winning three Six Nations titles and also appearing in the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.
Former Wasps player Launchbury has appeared in 50 games since joining Quins from Japan’s Toyota Verblitz in 2023, but has only appeared in six games so far this term.
“It’s been going on for some time and it’s certainly no secret, but I feel it’s the right time to step away from rugby at the end of this season,” he told the Harlequins website.
“I’ve worn the England shirt 70 times, been a long-time member of Wasps, had the honor of representing Harlequins and spent a season in Japan. I’ve been really lucky to represent my team.
“Thank you to all my team-mates, past and present. The friendships we have built go far beyond rugby. There was never a day that went by that I didn’t enjoy being around the people I’m lucky enough to call my teammates. You all made every challenge worth it.”
The last of Launchbury’s 70 England caps came in the 2022 Six Nations.
“Rugby has given me more than I could have ever dreamed of. It has given me not just a career, but a life full of purpose, friendships and memories that will last forever.
“I have given my all to my career, but my body is telling me it needs rest.
“I want to stay involved in the game in some way, but for now I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next, and most of all I’m looking forward to watching the kids grow.”
