Statement: Mako Vunipola follows brother out of Billy Vunipola

 from July 1 2024.”

The prop, who has been one of the leading figures in the sport for over a decade will bring down the curtain on a sparkling career at StoneX Stadium as he starts a new chapter for himself and his family.

The 33-year-old is one of the great success stories of the incredible journey at Sarries. He joined the academy back in 2011 and after climbing the ranks he went on to win five Premiership titles and three European trophies in North London during 229 appearances.

His extraordinary longevity at the top level of the sport is demonstrated by being selected for three consecutive British and Irish Lions Tours in 2013, 2017 and 2021, and featuring in all nine test matches during the tours of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa.

For England he gained 79 caps, won one Grand Slam, three Six Nations titles and will go down as one of the very best props to put on the famous white shirt.

Vunipola thanked everyone at Saracens for a glittering career.

“I’m grateful for everything this club has given me. I’ve grown up at this place and it will be forever in my heart. Thank you.”

Director of Rugby Mark McCall praised Mako’s generational ability.

"Few players change how their position is played. Mako’s all-around skillset, rugby intelligence and physicality made us - as coaches - rethink what’s possible from a loosehead prop.

Mako has achieved a phenomenal amount in the game; three Lions Tours, multiple England caps and being central to all Saracens has created.

A good friend and dedicated family man, Mako will forever be a part of the Saracens family and we wish him, Alex, Jacob, Joshua and Grace the best for what’s ahead.”

The recent disclosure of the earnings of some of rugby's most prominent figures illuminates the lucrative landscape at the pinnacle of the sport.

As reported by Wales Online, let's delve deeper into the earnings of today's highest-paid rugby players.

Siya Kolisi, the inspirational Springbok captain, has enjoyed considerable success both on and off the field. His reported salary of £800,000 at Racing 92 reflects his value to the team and his standing as one of the sport's most influential figures.

Maro Itoje, the towering English lock, has been the subject of considerable speculation regarding his future earnings. While his reported salary of £800,000 with Saracens is impressive, potential hybrid deals with the RFU could see his income increase even further, highlighting his importance to both club and country.

Faf De Klerk, the dynamic South African scrum-half, is among the highest-paid players in the game.

His reported salary of £900,000 with the Yokohama Canon Eagles in Japan reflects his status as one of rugby's premier talents.

Cheslin Kolbe, the electrifying Springbok star, has attracted attention not only for his on-field performances but also for his lucrative contracts. Despite turning down massive offers from other clubs, Kolbe's reported salary of around £900,000 with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan solidifies his status as one of the game's highest earners.

Finn Russell, the talismanic Scottish fly-half, rounds out the list as one of rugby's top earners.

His reported salary of £1 million with Bath underscores his value to the club and highlights the financial rewards available to elite players in the sport.

Owen Farrell is set to bid farewell to English rugby at the conclusion of this season, as the Saracens fly-half secures a lucrative two-season contract with Racing 92.

A statement from Racing read: “Racing 92 can confirm the signing of Owen Farrell (32) for our men’s team. The England international has joined for two seasons and will join up with the ciel et blanc

One report in France indicates that the former England captain could be earning up to £1.2m per season.