Jonny Lomax, the celebrated veteran of St Helens Rugby League Football Club, has confirmed that he will retire from professional play at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League campaign. The announcement, made public on Tuesday via his personal Instagram account, marks the end of a distinguished career that has spanned nearly two decades at the top level of the sport. Lomax’s journey with the Saints began in his teenage years and quickly evolved into a full‑time professional commitment that lasted 18 seasons. Over the course of those years he amassed an impressive 388 first‑team appearances, a tally that places him among the most capped players in the club’s modern history.
His on‑field achievements are equally noteworthy: Lomax helped St Helens secure five Super League Grand Final victories, added a Challenge Cup triumph to his résumé, and was part of the squad that won the World Club Challenge, showcasing his ability to perform on both domestic and international stages. Internationally, Lomax earned four caps for Great Britain and represented England on eleven occasions. The highlight of his international career came in 2017 when he featured in the Rugby League World Cup final against Australia, a match that underscored his status as one of the game’s elite play‑makers. Throughout his career, he was renowned for his versatility, operating effectively at stand‑off, scrum‑half and full‑back, and for his leadership qualities, eventually captaining his hometown side.
The decision to retire was not made on a whim. In his Instagram post, Lomax wrote: "At the end of 2026, I will call time on my playing career. This was something I always planned, and those closest to me have always been aware of it." He reflected on the journey that began as a childhood dream and evolved into a reality that far exceeded his early expectations. "Over the last 20 years [18 professionally], I have been able to live out a boyhood dream.
Achieving far more than I could ever have imagined. Representing and captaining my hometown club and, of course, the pinnacle, representing England and Great Britain," he said. Lomax also addressed the physical toll that a high‑intensity career inevitably takes.
He disclosed that he has undergone nineteen operations, including twelve knee surgeries before he turned 26, a testament to both his resilience and the relentless nature of elite rugby league. "I will retire at the age of 36, grateful for the life the game has given me, knowing I have given it everything I could, with the scars to prove it," he added, acknowledging the sacrifices made along the way. Despite the hardships, Lomax expressed a deep sense of gratitude and luck: "Despite this, I still feel lucky.
For those that have supported me throughout it all... I hope I have been able to do you proud." The timing of the announcement coincides with a challenging period for the Saints. Currently sitting on 28 points, St Helens occupy seventh place in the Super League table, just outside the play‑off positions with three matches remaining.
To secure a post‑season berth, they must overtake at least one of the clubs ahead of them—Hull KR (sixth with 30 points), Leigh Leopards (fifth with 32 points), or Wakefield Trinity (fourth with 32 points). The race is tight, and every point will be crucial in the final stretch of the season.
Meanwhile, the league leaders, Leeds Rhinos, have already clinched a play‑off spot, as have Wigan Warriors, who sit level on 38 points but trail on points differential, and Warrington Wolves, who hold the third position. These teams have already secured their places in the postseason, leaving St Helens to fight for the remaining slots. Fans can follow every Super League fixture live on Sky Sports, which has committed to broadcasting all matches this season. Two games each round will be shown exclusively on the main Sky Sports channel, while the remaining five fixtures will be available via the Sky Sports+ streaming service.
The league also encourages viewers to use the Chrome browser for an optimal video player experience. Beyond the on‑field action, the rugby league community can stay engaged with the sport through additional content such as "The Bench" podcast, hosted by Jenna and Jon, which offers analysis, interviews, and behind‑the‑scenes insights into the league’s developments. Jonny Lomax’s retirement will close a remarkable chapter in St Helens’ history.
His legacy includes not only the silverware and caps but also the intangible influence he has had on younger players, the club’s culture, and the passionate fan base that has supported him throughout his career. As the 2026 season draws to a close, the rugby league world will reflect on his contributions and look forward to the next generation of talent that will step into the void left by one of the sport’s most respected figures.