Veteran England lock Joe Launchbury has confirmed his decision to hang up his boots at the end of the current season. With 70 caps under his belt, accumulated between 2012 and 2022, Launchbury has enjoyed a storied career, claiming three Six Nations titles and participating in the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups. Since joining Harlequins from Toyota Verblitz in 2023, he has made 50 appearances, although this term has seen him feature just six times.
Launchbury reflected on his career, stating, "The time feels right to step away from rugby at the end of this season." He expressed gratitude to his teammates, past and present, and acknowledged the profound impact rugby has had on his life, providing not only a career but also friendships and lifelong memories. Launchbury now looks forward to the next chapter, with a desire to remain involved in the sport and spend quality time with his family, particularly watching his children grow up.