Dan Cole leaves Leicester due to personal reasons

Dan Cole will be leaving Leicester Tigers at the end of 2025.

The legendary tighthead prop turned Recruitment and Retention Manager has made the difficult decision to depart the club for personal reasons.

Cole made his first appearance for the club during the 2007-08 season and appeared over 250 times for the club, breaking the record of league appearances for the club during the 2023-24 season.

During his 17 years as a one-club man, Leicester-born Cole won four Premiership titles, three Six Nations championships and appeared in the Rugby World Cup final of 2019. He also went on two British and Irish Lions tours, to Australia in 2013 and New Zealand in 2017.

A firm fan-favourite, Cole will always be welcome at Mattioli Woods Welford Road and leaves as an all-time great in the ‘C’ shirt.

Cole said, "I am leaving Tigers with a heavy heart. This club means everything to me and it has been an honour to represent the badge.”

“Unfortunately, a change in personal circumstances dictates that I cannot give the role the attention it deserves moving forwards so I am stepping away.”

“I have no doubt that the club is on strong footing for 2026 and beyond and wish Geoff, the players and everyone at Mattioli Woods Welford Road the best of luck."

Andrea Pinchen, Tigers CEO said, “Dan leaves the club, but his legacy as a player, employee and most importantly as a person will remain."

“He epitomises the toughness, passion and love for the badge that this club is all about.”

“He will be missed.”