STATEMENT: England legend Joe Launchbury retires from rugby union

Launchbury joined the South West London club in 2023 and has since reached 50 appearances for the Quarters, a landmark he achieved during this season’s Investec Champions Cup win away at La Rochelle.

During his time at The Stoop, the former Wasps lock has been an important figure within the forward unit, adding strength in both lineout and scrum situations when required, while also contributing experience, guidance, and mentorship to emerging players in the squad.

At club level, Launchbury spent the majority of his career with Wasps, representing the side for more than a decade and making 132 appearances before the club entered administration in 2022.

He subsequently had a short stint in Japan with Toyota Verblitz before returning to the PREM with Harlequins.

On the international stage, Launchbury earned 70 Test caps for England after making his debut in 2012.

In his first autumn series, he was named Man of the Series, before starting all five matches of the 2013 Six Nations, where he was also named England Player of the Year in his debut full senior campaign.

He featured in major tournaments including the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups, reaching the final in Japan before defeat to South Africa. Across his England career, he contributed to three Six Nations title wins in 2016, 2017, and 2020, including a Grand Slam in 2016.

"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,” said Launchbury.

"It is hard to put into words what this game has meant to me. What started as a young lad at Exmouth Rugby Club became a journey that took me across the world and gave me memories I will carry for the rest of my life.

"To have worn the England shirt 70 times, to have given so many years to Wasps, to have had the honour of representing Harlequins, and to experience a season in Japan. I've been so fortunate to represent the teams I have.

"To my teammates, past and present, thank you. The friendships we have built go far beyond rugby. Not a day went by where I did not enjoy being around the people, I was lucky enough to call teammates. You made every challenge worthwhile.

"To the coaches and staff who believed in me, pushed me, and helped me grow, I am forever grateful. And to the fans, your support through every high and low has meant a lot to me and the teams I have been a part of.

"Most importantly, my family. Mum, Dad, and my sister Victoria, thank you for everything you gave me from the very beginning. Your support, whether near or far, has meant the world to me.

"Mallory, there are not enough words. You have been my strength through everything. The sacrifices you have made and the way you have supported me, always putting me first, is something I will never be able to repay. I only hope I have made you proud.

"Blythe, Hayden, Quinn, and our baby boy on the way, you are my reason for everything now. I hope one day you look back and feel proud, but more than anything I hope this journey shows you what hard work, resilience, and commitment can lead to.

"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!

"I would love to stay involved in the game in some way, but for now I am looking forward to what comes next, and most of all, being present to watch my children grow up.

"Thanks for the memories, Launchers."

Head Coach Jason Gilmore added: “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.”