Stephen Archer to retire After record Munster career

Stephen Archer, Munster Rugby’s most-capped player, has officially announced his retirement at the end of the current season, concluding an 18-year professional career with the province.

The veteran tighthead prop leaves behind a legacy marked by durability, loyalty, and quiet leadership.

Earlier this month, Archer became the first player in Munster’s history to reach 300 appearances — a remarkable feat that underlines his consistency and physical resilience.

Having joined the Munster academy in 2007 and made his senior debut against Edinburgh in 2009, Archer has been a fixture in the side ever since.

The 37-year-old played pivotal roles in Munster’s title-winning campaigns, including the 2010/11 Celtic League and the 2022/23 United Rugby Championship.

"Growing up, my family were huge Munster supporters and I was lucky enough to be brought to lots of games when I was younger.

"When I made my first Munster appearance in 2009, it was a dream come true. To still be playing 16 years on as Munster’s most capped player is fairly surreal and something I’m very proud of."

Though his international career was brief, he made two senior appearances for Ireland, debuting in the 2013 Six Nations against Italy and later playing against Australia that same year.

Looking ahead, Archer intends to spend more time with his family and explore post-rugby career paths, drawing from his years of elite-level sport and the relationships built along the way.