Rugby World Cup final referee Wayne Barnes has announced his retirement.
The English official officiated in 17 Six Nations tournaments and over 27 World Cup games across five competitions.
Barnes took charge of Ireland's pool victory over Tonga and their quarter-final defeat to New Zealand at the 2023 RWC. Barnes also referred the final between South Africa and the All Blacks.
The match, won by South Africa, was a record 27th Rugby World Cup match as referee for Barnes. It was also his sixth match of France 2023. Equalling the record he set at RWC 2019 haven taken charge of New Zealand’s beating Wales in the bronze play-off.
“Over the past 20 years, I have been in the middle of some of the greatest rugby matches in history” said Barnes. “I have seen some of the world’s best players and worked with some of the finest coaches the game has ever produced”.
“Last Saturday, I was privileged to referee the Rugby World Cup final between two of the most iconic teams in sport; the All Blacks and the Springboks”.
“People often say you will know when it is the right time to retire. This is clearly the right time for me and for my family”.
"My children have missed out on time with their dad for far too long. I am now looking forward to family weekends, sports matches, school assemblies and birthday parties”.
"My wife, Polly, has sacrificed more than anyone so that I was able to achieve some of my personal goals. While I have been away most weekends and for decent chunks of the year, she has had to juggle being an amazing mum with two active children, along with holding down a hugely successful career of her own”.
— Wayne Barnes (@WayneBarnesRef) November 2, 2023
