Joel Ward signs two-year deal to stay at Crystal Palace
The right-back has spent the last nine seasons at Selhurst Park
www.the-independent.comShort answer: Joel Ward’s Crystal Palace situation has moved on from being a current player. Most recent widely reported updates indicate he left Crystal Palace in 2025 after 13 years at the club, with the club publicly thanking him for his service.[2][4]
Details and context
- Departure from Palace: In May 2025, Crystal Palace confirmed Joel Ward would depart the club after a 13-year spell, as his contract expired, ending a long association that began in 2012/13. This marked the close of his first-team tenure at Selhurst Park.[4]
- Length and role at Palace: Ward became a longtime fixture for Palace, making hundreds of appearances across competitions and serving as a versatile defender while also contributing in other positions as needed. His tenure is noted as a significant chapter in the club’s modern era.[2][4]
- Public remarks: Palace chairman Steve Parish and Ward both publicly reflected on his contributions and the privilege of representing the club, underscoring the respect and appreciation for his service.[4][2]
- Post-Palace status: Following his departure, reporting focused on his legacy at Palace and potential next steps, with outlets noting his status as a former captain figure for the club during that period.[6][2]
If you’d like, I can pull a concise timeline of Ward’s Palace tenure and summarize his key moments (promotion run, notable saves, captaincy, and contract milestones) with sources. I can also look up current activities or clubs he’s connected with post-Palace if you want the latest potential destinations.