Ellie Kildunne exit: England star ‘unapologetically herself’ makes huge decision on future
Ellie Kildunne exit: England star 'unapologetically herself' makes huge decision on future
Harlequins have confirmed that Ellie Kildunne will depart the club at the end of the 2025/26 season.
A statement released by Quins reads: “Having joined the club in 2021, Kildunne has made 60 appearances and scored 52 tries in the famous quarters.
“During her five-season spell at Harlequins, Kildunne has grown into one of the most recognisable faces in the game, being named as World Player of the Year, winning the Rugby World Cup with the Red Roses and recently being named as runner-up at BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025.
“On and off the field, Kildunne has continued to raise awareness and interest in the Women’s game, attracting new spectators to the sport and helping to inspire a new generation of female athletes to pick up a rugby ball.”
Harlequins CEO Laurie Dalrymple said: “Ellie has helped inspire a generation of female players; some of whom are now coming through our Pathway and we are confident the future of Harlequins Women is bright. We want to wish Ellie every success in the future and thank her for her contribution to the club, and the Women’s game.”
Head coach Ross Chisholm added: “Ellie has been an important part of our squad over the last few seasons. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed working with her and seeing her put in performances for both Harlequins and the Red Roses. I look forward to seeing her continue to develop as a player and we all wish her every success for the future.”
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Trouble at Quins
This bombshell announcement comes just days after former Quins star Mike Brown claimed to have been “erased” from the club after expressing his frustration online.
“There are certain individuals who are still there that mean I’ve not got a relationship with that great club,” he told Planet Rugby bluntly. “It feels I’ve kind of been blacklisted, which is a shame.
“It feels, without getting into too much detail, I’ve been erased from the place.”
Harlequins’ men have suffered a catastrophic lack of form this season and are likely to finish ninth in the league, their lowest position in many, many years. Harlequins women are also struggling for form, winning just one out of their last five matches.
“See you on the pitch cowboys”
Sharing her thoughts on social media, Kildunne said: “End of a chapter – after five years at Quins, it’s hard to put into words how much this place has meant to me. I’ve shared so many moments here – on the field, in the changing room, and with friendships that will stay with me long after I leave.
“I’ve always tried to be the best player I can be, giving everything I have every time I step onto the pitch. For me, that’s always been about being in the right environment – one where I can be unapologetically myself and work with those who truly value each individual and what they bring to the team.
“I’m incredibly grateful to the supporters and my teammates who’ve inspired me to play the rugby I love.
“Things may not always be in our control, and I’m gutted to be leaving, I wish everyone at Quins the best for what’s next, see you on the pitch cowboys x.”
There’s been no confirmation on the 26-year-old’s next move, but she will certainly not be short of offers.
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