Capped 38 times by Wales and a further three times by the British & Irish Lions, Hibbard has been a firm favourite with rugby supporters throughout his illustrious career.
Hibbard moved to Rodney Parade in 2018 and made a total of 60 appearances for the Men of Gwent – scoring a memorable hat-trick against Connacht in February 2021.
The hugely popular 38-year-old – who also enjoyed successful playing spells with Ospreys and Gloucester Rugby – will now hang up his boots through injury.
Dean Ryan, Director of Dragons Rugby, said: “Hibbz has been an important figure during my time at Dragons, both his efforts on the field and his work developing youngsters within our squad.
“His contribution to Welsh rugby has been enormous over the years, especially when you consider what he achieved and the impact he made for Wales and the British & Irish Lions.
“I’m sure he will be greatly missed by supporters of our game, with whom he always had a great affinity.
“He leaves us with our best wishes and Hibbz and his family will always be warmly welcomed back to Rodney Parade in the future.”
Hibbard’s career took off when he joined the Ospreys in 2004, having previously played for Swansea, and he went on to make over 175 appearances for the region.
He also enjoyed a spell in the English Premiership with Gloucester – making over a century of appearances – before moving back to Wales to join Dragons in the summer 2018.
Hibbard won a first call-up to the Wales squad to tour Argentina in 2006, winning his first two caps on tour. He went on to win 38 international caps.
He was selected in the British & Irish Lions squad to take on the Wallabies in 2013 and made three appearances.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Dragons and it’s exciting to see the young front row talent and hookers coming through the ranks now; that’s a real positive for the region,” said Hibbard.
“A huge thank you to all the fans at Rodney Parade for all the support and I wish the Dragons every success for the future.”
Richard Hibbard was capped 38 times by Wales
Hibbard said: “Unfortunately, my body has finally said enough is enough. Disappointingly, it’s at such a young age of 38! What a ride it’s been. I’ve been lucky enough to do everything Ive wanted, and more, in this great game.
“While trying to write something to explain how lucky I’ve been to play the game I’ve absolutely adored, for such a long, long time, I think of all the people I’ve met along the way, who I’d like to thank, but genuinely it’s been so many. From the boys I’ve been lucky enough to have played with, each and every coach who slightly changed my outlook, the physios and doctors sticking me back together, the backroom staff who make all the cogs go around and all the kit men I plagued – even though they made it out that they pay for the kit themselves! Also, of course, my friend and agent of 20 years Rhyd, and all my family and friends.
“Something that’s truly special in rugby is the bond you make with the ‘brothers’ who you go to war with every week, and not just the team on the Saturday, the whole squad, every session leading to the weekend. During every win, loss, winning streak, losing streak, trophies, injuries, the boys, they kick you when you’re down, and kick you even harder when you’re up. That’s what you do it all for, that slightly weird friendship. I wouldn’t change it for the world.
“But the most important person who I want and need to thank is my wife, Louise. Everything great that is built, is always from a strong foundation, and by God she’s been mine. Through injuries, selections, travel, the day after games, grumpiness, Lou’s been the reason I’ve been lucky enough to do what I’ve done in rugby. Big thanks also to my kids – Tiella, Summer and Jaxson – who also help me get through everything.
“Bit long-winded I know, but the only ones left to thank are the supporters – Ospreys, Gloucester, Dragons, Wales, Lions, Barbarians – you’ve all been immense, and it’s been a pleasure and an honour to get battered in your name! So, a big thank you too.”
