Italy lock that shares unique Castrogiovanni stat aims to end career on 'high note'

Italy lock Valeria Fedrighi hopes to finish her playing career on a ‘high note’ after the 33-year-old confirmed she will retire this weekend in Cardiff.

When she wins her 72nd cap since her 2017 debut for the Azzurre against Wales in Round 5 of the 2026 Guinness Women’s Six Nations, it will be the forward’s last-ever game of rugby.

Along with Martin Castrogiovanni, Fedrighi is the only Italian to have won league titles in England and France, having enjoyed productive spells with Saracens in Premiership Women’s Rugby [then Premier 15s] and Stade Toulousain in Élite 1 Feminin.

“Making a decision about ending your career encompasses many different aspects and isn’t an instant process,” Fedrighi said.

“I was very fortunate to be able to decide when the right time was. I believe I’ve always given my all and have always believed deeply in the path we’ve collectively undertaken.

“These have been years of my life in which I’ve grown not only technically, but also as a person, on a journey that has significantly shaped who I am today. I have no regrets and am grateful to all the people I’ve met along this long journey.

“I can’t wait to see what the future holds for me in this new chapter of my life. But first, we still have a game to play: another journey, another anthem, another time in the Azzurri jersey and with my teammates. I’m certain we’ll end this Six Nations on a high note, together once again.”

Italy could finish as high as third in the Women’s Six Nations standings with a win this weekend at Cardiff Arms Park. To do so, Fedrighi and her teammates would need Scotland to upset Ireland’s party in front of 30,000 supporters at the Aviva Stadium.

Fedrighi has played at 10 Women’s Six Nations, three Women’s Rugby World Cups and two editions of WXV. After spells with Saracens and Toulouse, the 33-year-old has represented Rugby Colorno and Zebre Parma in the Latin Cup.

Zebre Parma have confirmed that Fedrighi will be staying with the club to work as a community manager.

George Biagi, Zebre Parma Sporting Director, said: “Valeria has played an important role in our women’s project, contributing her experience, leadership, and great professionalism.

“We are delighted to welcome her to the club in a new role, continuing a journey she has already shared with our team. First and foremost, however, we want to congratulate her on a stellar career and for her contribution to Italian rugby over the years.”