France

Sebastien Chabal confirms retirement

ESPN Staff

Sebastien Chabal at a press conference to announce his retirement © Getty Images Enlarge

Former France international Sebastien Chabal will retire from rugby on Sunday.

Chabal, who won 62 caps for France, has turned out for Lyon this season and will play in their match on Sunday against La Rochelle and then call time on his career. He told a press conference on Monday: "At the end of the season, on Sunday, I will end my professional rugby career with pleasure... having helped the club [Lyon] being promoted to the top flight."

Chabal, who was equally adept across the back-row and in the locks, spent five years at Sale from 2004 through to 2009 and helped them to the Premiership title in 2006. He then joined Racing Metro but by then his status as one of France's most recognisable personalities was secured after his role in their 2007 World Cup campaign.

While Chabal has announced his retirement, Lionel Nallet, 37, will play one more season for Lyon before calling time on his career. He will be joined at Lyon next season by veteran Wallabies flanker George Smith, fly-half Stephen Brett, Exeter prop Hoani Tui and potentially hooker Deon Fourie.

Lyon celebrate their promotion to the PROD2 © Getty Images Enlarge

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