Joe Marler announces retirement from rugby

Veteran England prop Joe Marler has announced his retirement from professional rugby, with Harlequins’ Premiership match against Bristol Bears on Friday marking his final game.

Marler, 34, retires as one of rugby’s most recognized figures, earning 95 caps for England and contributing to three Six Nations championship wins (2016, 2017, and 2020). He was instrumental in England’s runner-up finish in the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan and their third-place finish in France in 2023.

At the club level, Marler spent his entire professional career with Harlequins, securing two Premiership titles in 2012 and 2021. His prowess on the pitch earned him a spot on the British and Irish Lions tour of New Zealand in 2017, cementing his legacy as one of rugby’s finest.

Reflecting on his career, Marler said: “The time has come to finally jump off the rollercoaster and walk away from this beautifully brutal game. On Friday night, I’ll play my last ever match for Quins. After all these happy years, it’s over."

He expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters and his teammates, adding, “I feel lucky to have pulled on the jersey worn by so many idols of mine... I got to stand alongside so many great players and people that have made this club so special.”

Harlequins head coach Danny Wilson paid tribute to Marler’s exceptional contributions:

“Joe should be incredibly proud of his fantastic career.

"He’s a remarkable character on and off the pitch and hugely popular with our supporters.

"In the modern game, it’s rare that players stay at one club for the duration of their professional career, and that speaks volumes of Joe’s connection to Harlequins.”