Tommy Makinson has confirmed that he will hang up his boots at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League campaign, bringing an illustrious playing career to a close. The 34‑year‑old winger, who currently plies his trade with the Catalans Dragons, spent the bulk of his professional life at St Helens, where he featured from 2011 until 2024. During his tenure with the Saints he helped the club secure five Super League crowns – in 2014, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 – and amassed more than 300 first‑team appearances.
While at St Helens, Makinson also added a World Club Challenge title, a Challenge Cup triumph and four League Leaders’ Shields to his trophy cabinet. His consistent excellence earned him a place in the Super League Dream Team on three separate occasions, underscoring his status as one of the competition’s most reliable finishers.
Over the course of his time with the club he crossed the try‑line more than 200 times, a remarkable tally that cements his legacy as a prolific scorer. In late 2024 Makinson made the move to the Catalans Dragons, joining the French outfit ahead of the 2025 season. Even after switching leagues, his knack for finding the try‑zone persisted; he recorded 20 tries in just 37 outings for the Dragons, demonstrating that his attacking instincts remained sharp despite the change in environment.
On the international stage, the winger has worn the England jersey more than 20 times, contributing his experience and skill to the national side in numerous tournaments and test matches. Speaking on Instagram as the 2026 season entered its final phases, Makinson wrote, “As the 2026 season moves towards its final stages, I feel now is the right time to announce that this will be my final season as a professional rugby league player.” He went on to reflect on the journey that had taken him from a youngster dreaming of the sport to a seasoned veteran who had represented some of the biggest clubs in both England and France, as well as his country at the highest level. "Rugby league has been incredibly kind to me, and when I look back on the journey I've been on, I feel nothing but pride and gratitude.
I've been very fortunate to live out a dream I had as a kid and represent some of the biggest clubs both in England and France and also the pinnacle which is representing my country," he posted. The sentiment captured the deep emotional connection he feels toward the game that has shaped his adult life. Makinson also paid tribute to the network of support that has underpinned his success. "There have been so many highs, some difficult moments, incredible memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.
I wouldn't have been able to experience any of it without the unbelievable support I've had from my family, friends, team‑mates, coaches, staff, supporters and everyone who has played a part in my career. To each and every one of you, thank you," he wrote.
The acknowledgement highlighted the collaborative nature of rugby league, where individual accolades are often the product of collective effort. He added a note of determination for the remaining fixtures: "I've still got a few games left, and I want to enjoy every second of them. I'll be taking it all in, appreciating the moments and giving everything I have to finish this chapter of my career in the best possible way." The statement conveys his intent to finish on a high note, savoring each match as a final opportunity to contribute on the field. Makinson’s reflections also touched on the intangible rewards of a life spent in sport.
"It's hard to put into words what rugby league has given me, but I know how lucky I am to have lived this life and played the game I love for as long as I have," he concluded. This sentiment resonates with many athletes who view their careers not merely as a series of statistics, but as a source of personal growth, camaraderie, and lifelong memories. The announcement arrives at a time when Sky Sports has committed to broadcasting every Super League match live throughout the season, with two fixtures each round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining five available via Sky Sports+. Fans will have ample opportunity to watch Makinson’s final performances, whether through traditional television or the Sky Sports+ streaming platform.
The coverage ensures that supporters across the UK and beyond can follow his swansong in real time. Beyond the on‑field action, the news has sparked a wave of tributes across social media, with former teammates, coaches, and pundits lauding his dedication, work ethic, and impact on the game. Many highlighted his consistency as a try‑scorer, his professionalism in training, and his leadership within the dressing room.
The respect he commands reflects a career built not only on personal achievement but also on the respect he earned from peers. Looking ahead, Makinson has hinted that retirement may open the door to new ventures within the sport, such as coaching, mentoring younger players, or media work.
While he has not confirmed specific plans, his extensive experience and articulate nature make him a strong candidate for roles that keep him connected to rugby league. In summary, Tommy Makinson’s decision to retire at the end of the 2026 season marks the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in modern rugby league.
From his early days at St Helens, where he collected five league titles and a host of individual honors, to his recent spell with the Catalans Dragons and his long‑standing service for England, his career has been defined by consistency, flair, and a genuine love for the sport. As the final matches of the season approach, fans and colleagues alike will be watching closely, ready to celebrate the achievements of a player who has left an indelible mark on the game.