Veteran England lock Joe Launchbury has confirmed his decision to retire from professional rugby at the end of the current season. With 70 international caps to his name, spanning from 2012 to 2022, Launchbury has had a storied career, marked by three Six Nations titles and appearances at the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups. His journey included significant stints with Wasps and, more recently, Harlequins, following a brief period with Toyota Verblitz in Japan. Launchbury reflected on his career, expressing gratitude for the opportunities to represent England, Wasps, and Harlequins, and to have experienced a season in Japan.
He thanked his teammates, past and present, for the friendships and memories that extend beyond his rugby career. Launchbury acknowledged that his body is signaling the need for a break, but he hopes to remain involved in the sport in some capacity. For now, he looks forward to spending more time with his family and watching his children grow.