The Scotland international has signed a two-year deal with French Top 14 club Perpignan, marking the end of a significant chapter at the Scottish capital club.
Ritchie has made over 100 appearances since his debut in 2014. His leadership, tenacity, and versatility have made him not just a key player but also a captain for Scotland, notably during the 2022 end of year internationals. He has earned over 50 caps for Scotland during his career.
The move to Perpignan represents a new challenge for Ritchie, offering a chance to immerse in a different rugby environment. The French club, currently mid-table in the Top 14, will gain from his experience and physical presence in the back-row.
Sean Everitt, Edinburgh’s head coach, shared his sentiments on Ritchie’s departure, “We’ve tried our best to keep Jamie at the club, but we respect his personal decision. He’s grown with us from a schoolboy to a club centurion and a Scottish captain. We wish him well in his new adventure.”
Ritchie himself has voiced the emotional weight of his decision, “Leaving Edinburgh has been incredibly hard for me and my family. I’ve loved every moment here, and I’m thankful for the journey. But now is the right time for a new challenge, both for my career and for our family life.”
Fan Reactions:
The announcement has elicited a range of reactions from Edinburgh Rugby fans, reflecting both sadness and optimism:
Many fans expressed their gratitude and support for Ritchie’s decision. One fan on X (formerly Twitter) stated, “Absolutely blinding move for Jamie Ritchie! They’ll love him over there, he’ll add to his game, younger players will get a chance – wins all round!”
There’s also a sense of loss among the supporters. A post on X noted, “If anything, I think Jamie Ritchie leaving for Perpignan might actually be a good thing for Edinburgh. There’s something deeply wrong with the culture at the club and that probably means moving on from leadership figures on and off the field.”
Ritchie’s commitment to Edinburgh for the remainder of the season is unwavering, with his focus on contributing to a strong finish in both the United Rugby Championship and the European Challenge Cup. His exit will open doors for emerging talents within Edinburgh’s ranks, providing them with a platform to step up.
