The England World Cup marks the final appearance for Laura Delgado, captain of 'Las Leonas'

Laura Delgado, fondly known as 'Bimba', has announced her retirement as an international rugby player after the Women's Rugby World Cup in England. Born in Jerez de la Frontera on April 7, 1990, Delgado has made a significant impact on the sport, both in Spain and beyond.

Delgado's rugby career began after she practiced hammer throw in athletics until she was 18 years old. Her official debut in the Spanish women's rugby team came on October 9, 2016, against the Czech Republic. Since then, she has accumulated 50 international caps, making her the sixth player to reach this milestone as a 'Leona' in Spanish women's rugby.

Throughout her career, Delgado has played for four English teams and spent the 2022 season with the Hawke's Bay in New Zealand. One of her most memorable moments was becoming the first European player to participate in a haka during the Farah Palmer Cup in 2022.

Delgado's leadership skills were evident as she captained 'Las Leonas' multiple times and led the team to six of the seven European championships she won. Her seventh European championship victory came in the form of the WXV3 trophy in 2024.

The Women's Rugby World Cup, to be held between August 22 and September 27 in England, will be Delgado's final tournament. She plans to approach it with passion, dedication, and enjoyment, hoping that it will give women's rugby the place it truly deserves.

In her farewell message, Delgado thanked everyone who has supported her throughout her sporting career. She also expressed her intention to continue supporting new generations of rugby players after her retirement.

Delgado's legacy in Spanish women's rugby is undeniable. With her nickname 'Bimba', she has become a beloved figure in the sport, and her retirement marks the end of an era. However, her impact on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come.