George North will officially end his rugby career on Saturday, playing his final match for the Barbarians against Wales at Twickenham. The 34-year-old Welsh back announced his retirement in April and has not played for club side Provence since February, but accepted the Barbarians invitation for a fitting farewell.
A Glittering Career
North earned 121 caps for Wales, winning four Six Nations titles and touring twice with the British & Irish Lions. At club level, he represented Scarlets, Northampton Saints, Ospreys, and Provence. He called the Barbarians opportunity a dream come true, especially with Wales as opponents.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to play for the Barbarians so to be invited now, for a game at Twickenham, against Wales is just incredible,” North said. “I have been so privileged to enjoy the career that I have had, and I have so many unforgettable memories from Wales and friendships to last a lifetime. So to go out against my country, with some of my friends and teammates playing is so special.”
Why North Quit and What Comes Next
Despite feeling he could still compete, North chose to retire on his own terms. “I still feel good, I can still compete, but I'm starting to creak,” he told RugbyPass. “Mentally I'm in a good spot. But I'm 34 now, I turned professional at 17 and I've been on the go ever since. With my young family, I've had enough time missing things that were important.”
North will spend more time with his wife, former Olympic cyclist Becky, and their two sons, Jac and Tomi. The family moved to France when he signed for Provence in 2024, and they have embraced French culture. His young sons now speak French, and North joked about his son asking for vinaigrette at dinner. He also frequents the local boulangerie, saying, “I said I wouldn't be the guy that would walk through the village to the boulangerie every day to get a baguette with the kids, but I am that guy!”
Business and Media Interests
North is co-owner of the Baffle Haus cafe chain in Wales, with locations in Pontypool and near Cardiff. He is expected to focus on his business and may pursue media work, following the path of former teammates Sam Warburton, Dan Biggar, and Jonathan Davies.
