Alun Wyn Jones signs for Toulon

In a major coup for the club, Toulon has secured the signature of Welsh legend Alun Wyn Jones. The second row Test cap record holder is set to join RCT in the coming days as a medical joker ahead of the Rugby World Cup.

Having retired from Test rugby in May, for the first time in his career the 37-year-old will play his rugby outside of Wales.  The club today confirmed that the second row will move to France with his family and embark on a new chapter, representing Toulon in the TOP 14 from the start of the 2023-2024 season.

Toulon director of rugby Pierre Mignoni expressed his delight in welcoming the legendary Welshman.

"We are delighted and honored to welcome a legendary player like Alun Wyn Jones to Toulon. His career demonstrates the immense talent of this player. His experience, his mental and physical strength as well as his exemplarity will bring to the locker room and to his teammates. said Pierre Mignoni, Director of Rugby at RCToulon."

Jones began his professional career with the Ospreys at the age of 19 after starting with the Neath-Swansea franchise.

Shortly after, he made his debut in test matches for Wales and eventually became the team's captain in 2009. Known for his physical prescence and leadership, Jones excelled for his national side and went on to represent the British & Irish Lions on four tours.

In October 2020, after representing Wales 158 times, Alun Wyn Jones etched his name in history by surpassing Richie McCaw as the most capped player in modern rugby.

Jones shocked many - not least Warren Gatland - when he opted out of Wales' World Cup plans, having been very much in the mix to go to his fifth tournament.

Wales boss Gatland said at the time: “I would like to congratulate Al on a phenomenal international career. His leadership, dedication and determination are second to none, and he has been an incredibly special player for Wales over the past 17 years.

“Every single time he has taken to the training pitch or put on the red jersey in a Test match he has given his absolute all, setting standards and leading by example.

“I am very fortunate to have been able to have worked with him with Wales and with the Lions.

“Al’s passion and commitment for his country are limitless, and he has been an important pillar for the game in Wales.

“He and his family can be immensely proud of all he has achieved and in knowing he leaves a lasting legacy in Welsh rugby.”