Joe Launchbury, the 35-year-old England second row, has announced his retirement at the end of the current season after earning 70 international caps. The lock represented England between 2012 and 2022, winning three Six Nations titles and featuring at both the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cups.

Previously with Wasps, Launchbury joined Harlequins from Japanese club Toyota Verblitz in 2023. Despite making 50 appearances for the club, he has featured just six times this term, with his reduced playing time likely contributing to his decision to step away from professional rugby.

The veteran player explained his body is telling him it needs a break, while also wanting to be present for his children's upbringing. "Rugby has given me more than I ever dreamed of," Launchbury stated, acknowledging the friendships, purpose, and memories that defined his career spanning multiple countries and clubs.