England Player of the Year Joe Heyes signs long-term Leicester deal

England tight-head Joe Heyes has committed to playing for his boyhood club Leicester into his 30s after signing a new four-year deal.

Heyes, 27, has enjoyed a stellar season for club and country, and was voted England Rugby Player of the Year at the recent Rugby Awards do in London.

Having been with the club since he was 16, Heyes made his senior debut in 2018 and is the most experienced member of the squad, with close to 200 appearances, now that Harry Wells has moved on.

The Nottingham-born prop said: “Leicester Tigers, it’s a place that I have grown to love since arriving as a 16-year-old.

“Over the years, I’ve experienced and felt the passion for this club, through the players, coaches, backroom staff and of course our incredible fans.”

“My family have all become Leicester Tigers’ and support from all over the word, we are Tigers through and through.

“To be able to re-sign and continue representing this club and the people of Leicester is a privilege.

“I’m incredibly excited about the future, we have a squad filled with talent and ambition and I know Geoff (Parling) shares the same passion and love for this club that I do.”

“Can’t wait to see you all at Mattioli Woods Welford Road in the 2026/27 season. If not, I’ll be in my garden.”

Head Coach Geoff Parling said, “Having Joe commit his long-term future here is a great statement on how much the club means to him, and coming through the Academy to winning England Men’s Player of the Season this year is testament to his diligence and work ethic.”

“He’s a brilliant character to have around, and what’s exciting is that I think that there’s still huge growth in his game that we look forward to developing.”