George Nott announces retirement from rugby

Cardiff Rugby second-row George Nott has announced he will retire from professional rugby at the end of December, bringing an end to a decade-long career.

The former Sale Sharks, London Irish and Dragons forward will leave the sport to pursue a new career opportunity in medical sales.

George Nott to Leave Cardiff Rugby in December

Nott joined Cardiff ahead of the 2025/26 season and has made 19 first-team appearances for the Blue & Blacks.

The Bodelwyddan-born lock will remain available for selection throughout December as he prepares to conclude his playing career.

Nott thanked Cardiff for welcoming him and acknowledged the difficulty of leaving during what he described as a special and historic year for the club.

“I would like to thank everyone at Cardiff for welcoming me and allowing me the privilege of pulling on the jersey. It has been an incredible end to my career and it’s been a really difficult decision to leave the club in what is such a special and historic year.

“In a short space of time I’ve made some great memories, and I look forward to watching the team with my family."

He also expressed appreciation for the support of head coach Corniel van Zyl, whose understanding helped him make the decision to pursue opportunities beyond rugby.

“I would particularly like to thank Corniel for his understanding and support. He has always brough the value of family alive through his actions and his lack of hesitation in supporting my decision is a clear demonstration of this.

“I wish the club all the best for their future endeavours on and off the pitch, Cardiff will always be a special chapter in our family’s life that we will look back on fondly.

“It goes without saying that I will continue to give my all each and every day in December, and hope to go out on a real high.”

George Nott's Career at Sale Sharks and Dragons

Nott developed through the Sale Sharks academy before making his senior debut in 2017. He went on to make 41 first-team appearances for the English club.

He joined London Irish in 2019, spending three seasons there and working alongside van Zyl before moving to the Dragons.

Nott subsequently spent three seasons at Rodney Parade, establishing himself as an important member of the Dragons squad before joining Cardiff.

Cardiff Rugby Plan Replacement for Retiring Lock

Cardiff head coach Corniel van Zyl praised Nott's professionalism, character and contributions both on and off the field.

Van Zyl acknowledged that Nott had struggled with injuries this season after enjoying a productive run of appearances during the previous campaign.

“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing and coaching George for some time now, from London Irish to here at Cardiff. He is a top man, a top professional and a very good rugby player.

“He cares about everything and everyone inside and outside the club, and does a huge amount of charitable work, he’s just a really good person and role model in the environment."