Jonny Lomax, the celebrated stalwart of St Helens Rugby League, has confirmed that he will call time on his playing days at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League campaign. The announcement was made public on Tuesday, marking the end of an era for one of the sport’s most enduring figures. Lomax’s final season comes after a prolonged period on the sidelines following a serious jaw fracture he sustained during the Saints’ loss to Warrington Wolves in June. Despite being sidelined, his legacy remains intact: he has taken to the field for St Helens a remarkable 388 times, a tally that includes five Grand Final victories, a Challenge Cup triumph and a World Club Challenge title.
His contributions have helped cement the club’s status as a powerhouse in modern rugby league. On the international stage, Lomax earned four caps for Great Britain and eleven for England. Among those appearances was a memorable slot in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, where England faced a formidable Australian side. Though the result did not go England’s way, Lomax’s presence on the world stage underscored his standing as one of the game’s elite playmakers.
The decision to retire was communicated through a heartfelt Instagram post, in which 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 went on to reflect on his two‑decade journey, noting that while he has been a professional for 18 years, his love for the sport began much earlier.
"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 his career has taken. "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 [19 operations, including 12 knee ops by the age of 26]. Despite this, I still feel lucky," he added.
His candor about the 19 surgeries—most of them on his knees—highlights the relentless wear and tear that elite athletes endure. He concluded his message with a note of gratitude to supporters: "For those that have supported me throughout it all...
I hope I have been able to do you proud." The post resonated with fans across social media, many of whom expressed admiration for his dedication and humility. St Helens currently sit on 28 points, occupying seventh place in the Super League table with three games remaining.
This position places them just outside the playoff bracket, trailing Hull KR (sixth with 30 points), Leigh Leopards (fifth with 32 points) and Wakefield Trinity (fourth also on 32 points). The Saints will need to secure wins in their final fixtures and hope for favorable results elsewhere to leapfrog at least one of those teams and secure a postseason berth.
The race for the top spots remains intense. Leeds Rhinos lead the league, while Wigan Warriors sit level on 38 points but lag behind on points differential.
Warrington Wolves, currently in third place, have already clinched a playoff position alongside the leaders. The final weeks of the season promise high drama as clubs battle for the limited playoff slots. Fans can follow every Super League match this season on Sky Sports, which offers live coverage of all games.
Two matches per round are broadcast exclusively live on the main channel, while the remaining five fixtures are available via Sky Sports+. For those who prefer streaming, the league’s official website provides a live video player optimized for Chrome browsers.
Beyond the on‑field action, the sport’s media landscape includes popular podcasts such as "The Bench," hosted by Jenna and Jon, which offers analysis, interviews and behind‑the‑scenes insights into the league’s developments. These platforms keep supporters engaged throughout the season, especially as the narrative surrounding Lomax’s impending retirement unfolds. As Lomax prepares to end his playing career, he leaves behind a legacy defined by resilience, leadership and an unwavering commitment to his hometown club. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring players, demonstrating that dedication can translate into both personal achievement and collective glory.
While the Saints will miss his on‑field vision and experience, the club and its supporters will celebrate a career that spanned nearly two decades, multiple trophies and countless unforgettable moments. Looking ahead, Lomax hinted that his involvement with rugby league may not be over. Though he will no longer lace up his boots, he expressed a desire to stay connected to the sport, potentially through coaching, mentorship or media work.
Such a transition would allow him to impart his hard‑earned wisdom to the next generation, ensuring that his influence endures long after his final whistle. In summary, Jonny Lomax’s announcement marks the conclusion of a distinguished chapter in St Helens’ history. As the 2026 season draws to a close, fans, teammates and rivals alike will reflect on a career that combined individual brilliance with team success, and they will look forward to seeing how the club charts its future without one of its most iconic figures.