Crystal Palace veteran Joel Ward will leave the club this summer after 13 years following the expiration of his contract.
The 35-year-old defender joined in 2012 and was instrumental in their promotion to the Premier League, notably with a crucial play-off final clearance.
A consistent performer, Ward played a key role in Palace’s sustained top-flight presence, earning Young Player of the Year in 2014 and featuring in their 2016 FA Cup Final run.
He was named captain in 2023/24 and became the first Palace player to reach 300 Premier League appearances, finishing with 363 total appearances (8th all-time) and a club-record 305 Premier League games.
Chairman Steve Parish hailed Ward as an “incredible ambassador” and an “example for all Palace players.”
Ward expressed his privilege at representing the club, calling his time an “incredible journey” and hinting at a future return with “see you later.”
