Tommy Makinson has confirmed that he will hang up his boots at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League season, bringing an illustrious playing career to a close. The 34‑year‑old winger, who currently lines up for the Catalans Dragons, spent the bulk of his professional life with St Helens, where he was a key figure from 2011 until his departure in 2024. During his tenure with the Saints he helped the club secure five Super League championships – in 2014, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 – and amassed more than 300 first‑team appearances. Makinson’s trophy cabinet also includes a World Club Challenge triumph, a Challenge Cup victory and four League Leaders' Shields earned while wearing the red and white of St Helens.
His individual brilliance was recognised on three occasions when he was named to the Super League Dream Team, underscoring his status as one of the competition’s most consistent performers. A natural try‑scorer, Makinson crossed the line more than 200 times for St Helens. After moving to the French side ahead of the 2025 campaign, he added another 20 tries in 37 matches, demonstrating that his attacking instincts remained sharp despite the change of environment. On the international stage, he has worn the England jersey over 20 times, contributing his speed and finishing ability to the national side.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, Makinson explained his decision: "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 impact the sport has had on his life, saying, "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." Makinson paid tribute to the network of support that enabled 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, teammates, coaches, staff, supporters and everyone who has played a part in my career.
To each and every one of you, thank you," he wrote. He also hinted at his mindset 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 winger admitted that words can scarcely capture what the game has meant to him. "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. Makinson's retirement will mark the end of an era for both St Helens and the Catalans Dragons.
At St Helens he was part of a dominant era that saw the club become the benchmark for excellence in the modern Super League, while his brief but impactful stint with the Catalans helped raise the profile of French rugby league on the international stage. Fans and pundits alike will remember his blistering pace, his uncanny ability to finish scoring opportunities, and his professionalism both on and off the field. Looking ahead, Makinson has not ruled out staying involved in the sport in a different capacity.
While he has not announced any concrete plans, former teammates speculate that coaching, mentoring young players or media work could be potential pathways, allowing him to share the wealth of experience he has accumulated over more than a decade at the top level. The 2026 Super League season will be closely followed by supporters eager to witness Makinson's final performances. Sky Sports has confirmed that every match this season will be broadcast live, with two games each round shown exclusively on the main channel and the remaining fixtures available on Sky Sports+. This comprehensive coverage ensures that fans across the UK and beyond can celebrate the winger's career as it draws to a close.
As the rugby league community prepares to bid farewell to one of its modern greats, the sentiment is clear: Tommy Makinson leaves the sport having achieved virtually everything a player could aspire to, while also inspiring the next generation with his dedication, humility, and love for the game. His legacy will endure in the record books, in the memories of the countless supporters who cheered his tries, and in the young athletes who now dream of emulating his remarkable journey.