Harlequins have announced the signing of tighthead prop Harry Williams ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
The 19-cap England prop signs at The Stoop from Top 14 outfit Section Paloise (Pau) adding strength and experience to Danny Wilson’s front row options.
Williams joins Quins after a two-year spell in France’s top tier having played for Montpellier in the Top 14 during the 2023/24 season, prior to his move to Pau.
Born and raised in South London, Williams attended Whitgift School before embarking on his journey in the professional game saw the tighthead play for Wasps, Nottingham and Jersey Reds, before landing in the West Country where he would excel with Exeter Chiefs.
In an eight-year spell at Sandy Park, the now 33-year-old made 162 appearances and played a pivotal role in the most successful period in the Club’s history.
Williams featured heavily throughout campaigns that saw the West Country club crowned Premiership champions in 2017, before completing an historic Domestic and European Cup double in 2020.
“I’m excited to be returning to the Premiership and joining Harlequins – it’s a great club with a huge fanbase,” said Williams.
“When the opportunity came up it felt like a great fit for me and feels like I’m coming home having grown up nearby in South London. I can’t wait to get started, give my all for the Club and learn from a top scrum coach in Adam Jones.
“Harlequins were the first team I ever went to watch with my Dad when I was younger, so the move feels like a full circle moment – I’m super excited to run out and play at The Stoop.”
Head Coach Danny Wilson added: “Harry is a great addition to our forward pack heading into next season. He’s a proven tighthead with experience at the top level of the game and adds depth to our front row options.
“He’s a powerful ball carrier and top scrummager, which will help us set a platform to play our style of rugby. We’re looking forward to welcoming Harry into the Club this summer.”
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Alun Wyn Jones and Owen Farrell included on list of worst British & Irish Lions
The British & Irish Lions is the pinnacle of a player’s career – a chance to prove yourself against the very best. But not everyone rises to the occasion.
While some have cemented their legacies in red jerseys, others have left fans wondering how they even made the squad.
From unfortunate injuries to underwhelming performances, we take a look at some of the worst Lions players across different tours, with big names like Owen Farrell and Alun Wyn Jones making the cut.
2021 tour: Owen Farrell – The forgotten playmaker
Owen Farrell, one of the most recognisable and influential players in modern rugby, endured a tour to forget in South Africa. Despite his vast experience and reputation as a leader, Farrell was named by SA Rugby Mag as the worst-performing Lion on the tour.
Initially expected to play a key role, he started three games and featured off the bench in the first two Tests.
However, as the series decider loomed, head coach Warren Gatland made a brutal call – dropping Farrell from the matchday 23 entirely. It was a stark fall from grace for a player who was once considered indispensable.
WIN A TRIP TO THE 2025 LIONS:
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- 2 x Return flight tickets from the UK to Australia
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 2nd Test in Melbourne
- 2 x Tickets to watch the 3rd Test in Sydney
- 4 x Night’s accommodation in Melbourne with bed & breakfast (24-27 July)
- 7 x Night’s accommodation in Sydney with bed & breakfast (28 July-3 Aug)
- 2 x Flight tickets Melbourne to Sydney including airport hotel group transfers
- 2 x Tickets to watch a private function with Lions legends
- Additional events to be announced
The winner will be part of the Lions supporters group with tour representatives on hand to oversee everything.
