Billy Vunipola (Released)
The number eight has been one of the greatest players in the history of the club and will depart for a new challenge after a remarkable 11-year spell in North London. Vunipola, who has played for the Men in Black on 194 occasions, has won an incredible five Premiership trophies and three European titles during his time at StoneX Stadium.
The 31-year-old originally joined Sarries in 2013 as a 20-year-old after bursting on to the scene at Wasps and turned in a world class player as his game went from strength to strength. Becoming a household name due to his barnstorming performances, he was central to the success for Sarries.
A try in the 2019 European Cup Final in Newcastle against Leinster put his side en route to their third Champions Cup crown, making him a firm fan favourite at StoneX. On the international stage he made the England number eight shirt his own, gaining 75 caps for his country, winning three Six Nations titles, one Grand Slam, and securing second and third in the 2019 and 2023 World Cups.
During the 2016 Grand Slam winning year he was nominated for the World Rugby Player of the Year Award.
Billy, who will be looking to sign off from Saracens duty on a high, had these words for everyone at the club. “It’s been a honour to represent the people and this great club, through the highs and lows I’ve enjoyed it all. I will treasure my time here for the rest of my life!”
Maki Vunipola (Released)
The prop, who has been one of the leading figures in the sport for over a decade will bring down the curtain on a sparkling career at StoneX Stadium as he starts a new chapter for himself and his family. The 33-year-old is one of the great success stories of the incredible journey at Sarries.
He joined the academy back in 2011 and after climbing the ranks he went on to win five Premiership titles and three European trophies in North London during 229 appearances.
His extraordinary longevity at the top level of the sport is demonstrated by being selected for three consecutive British and Irish Lions Tours in 2013, 2017 and 2021, and featuring in all nine test matches during the tours of Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. For England he gained 79 caps, won one Grand Slam, three Six Nations titles and will go down as one of the very best props to put on the famous white shirt.
Vunipola thanked everyone at Saracens for a glittering career. “I’m grateful for everything this club has given me. I’ve grown up at this place and it will be forever in my heart. Thank you.”