O'Connell to retire after World Cup

 

O'Connell, who is currently contracted until June 2016, has requested an early release from his contract and both the IRFU and Munster have acceded to the request given Paul's exceptional contribution to the sport.

 

IRFU Chief Executive Philip Browne said that O'Connell's service to the game helped Irish Rugby rugby grow into the force it is today.

 

"Paul has been a fantastic servant to Irish rugby. Over the course of his 101 Ireland caps to date he has set the standard for the model Irish professional. 

 

"His contribution to Irish rugby is immeasurable in terms of not only driving success on the field but also raising the profile of Irish rugby around the world."

 

Munster Rugby Chief Executive Garrett Fitzgerald added: "In wishing Paul all the best for the future, I would like to acknowledge the outstanding role he has played within Munster Rugby.

 

"Over a 14-year career with the province, Paul has epitomised what it means to wear the red jersey, and through his own hard-work, commitment and leadership he has become an iconic figure in world rugby.

 

"A truly great ambassador for the province, he has been the standard-bearer of this team for over a decade and everyone around him has reaped the benefits of his professionalism and dedication. We would like to think this is not the final chapter in Paul's Munster story, and we would welcome future opportunities to work with him again."

 

O'Connell made his senior Munster debut in 2001 away to Edinburgh and has represented the province on 178 occasions. With Munster, he has won two European Cups (2006 and 2008), three Celtic League/PRO12 titles (2003, 2009 and 2011) and a Celtic Cup in 2005. 

 

He made his Ireland debut against Wales in February 2002. With Ireland, he has won a Grand Slam (2009), led his country to two Six Nations Championship titles (2014 and 2015) and claimed four Triple Crowns (2004, 2006, 2007 and 2009).

 

In 2009 he led the British & Irish Lions tour of South Africa. A three-time Lions tourist (2005, 2009 and 2013), he played in a total of seven Lions Tests and was a member of the Series-winning side in Australia in 2013.

 

The Veteran thanked his club and country for his 14 years of involvement as well as the fans who followed him throught his career.

 

"I have been hugely fortunate to play with one of the greatest sporting organisations in the world – and as a proud Limerick, Munster and Irishman, I will forever treasure my association with Munster Rugby. 

 

"After the World Cup I would like to experience new environments, and it is my genuine hope and ambition that I will have some future involvement with Munster and Irish rugby.

 

"I would also like to thank all Munster and Irish rugby fans for their support and I look forward to them showing why they are regarded as the best supporters in world rugby as Ireland travel to the Rugby World Cup in England in September."