England midfielder Fran Kirby has announced her retirement from international football, closing the chapter on a celebrated career with the Lionesses just a month before the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025.
Kirby, 31, earned 77 caps for England and was a key figure in the team’s historic UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 triumph, starting all six matches and contributing two goals and three assists during the tournament.
“After being in the England team since the age of 21, it’s time to close that chapter of my life,” Kirby wrote on social media. “I never wanted this day to come, but I cannot tell you how proud I am that it happened. Representing my country has been the greatest honour and a dream come true from my younger years.”
Kirby made her final appearance for the Lionesses as a substitute in last week’s 6-0 win over Portugal but was left out of the squad for Tuesday’s 2-1 defeat to Spain.
Throughout her career, Kirby battled a number of injuries and illnesses, including a knee injury that forced her to miss the 2023 Women’s World Cup. Despite the setbacks, she remained a symbol of resilience and determination.
“My journey has been full of ups and downs, setbacks and achievements,” she said. “Regardless of whatever was thrown at me, I want you all to know that every time I put on that England badge, I gave it my all.”
A former Chelsea star, Kirby won seven Women’s Super League titles and five FA Cups with the London club. This season, she played for Brighton & Hove Albion, scoring seven goals in 17 appearances to help the club to a fifth-place finish.
Kirby’s departure marks the end of an era for England, with one of the country’s most creative and inspirational players stepping away just as a new generation prepares to take the reins.
