Jonny Lomax, the celebrated stalwart of St Helens Rugby League, has confirmed that he will retire 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, who has been sidelined since suffering a broken jaw during the Saints' loss to Warrington Wolves in June, has compiled an impressive résumé of 388 first‑team appearances for the club. Throughout his tenure he helped St Helens secure five Super League Grand Final victories, lift the Challenge Cup once, and capture the World Club Challenge title.
His contributions on the field have cemented his status as a true legend of the club. On the international stage Lomax earned four caps for Great Britain and eleven caps for England. Among those appearances was a memorable slot in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, where England faced Australia.
His performances for the national sides added another layer of prestige to an already glittering club career. The decision to retire was communicated via an 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. 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. 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. For those that have supported me throughout it all...
I hope I have been able to do you proud." Lomax's words reflect a career defined by resilience and dedication. Despite enduring nineteen surgical procedures—including a staggering twelve knee operations before reaching his mid‑twenties—he consistently returned to top‑level competition, demonstrating a work ethic that inspired teammates and fans alike. His leadership qualities were evident not only in his captaincy of St Helens but also in his mentorship of younger players navigating the rigors of professional rugby league. The Saints currently sit on 28 points, occupying seventh place in the Super League table with three matches remaining.
This position places them just outside the playoff bracket, trailing Hull KR (sixth, 30 points), Leigh Leopards (fifth, 32 points) and Wakefield Trinity (fourth, 32 points). A strong finish to the season could see St Helens leapfrog one of these rivals and secure a postseason berth. Meanwhile, the league leaders Leeds Rhinos, along with Wigan Warriors—who share 38 points but sit behind Leeds on points differential—and Warrington Wolves, who have already clinched third place, are all locked into the playoff picture.
For supporters eager to follow the final stretch of the campaign, Sky Sports will broadcast every Super League fixture live this season. Two matches 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. Fans can also tune into the "Bench" podcast, hosted by Jenna and Jon, for in‑depth analysis and behind‑the‑scenes commentary. Looking back on his career, Lomax's impact extends beyond statistics.
His tenacity in overcoming injuries, his loyalty to his hometown club, and his representation of his country at the highest level have left an indelible mark on the sport. As he approaches his 36th birthday, he does so with a sense of gratitude for the opportunities rugby league has afforded him, and with the confidence that he has given the game everything he possessed. The announcement of his retirement will undoubtedly spark reflection among the St Helens faithful and the broader rugby league community. While his departure will create a void in the Saints' lineup, it also opens the door for emerging talent to step up and carry forward the legacy he helped build.
As the 2026 season draws to a close, all eyes will be on Lomax's final performances, the team's push for a playoff spot, and the heartfelt tributes that will pour in from teammates, opponents, and supporters worldwide. In summary, Jonny Lomax's decision to retire marks the culmination of a distinguished 18‑year professional journey, highlighted by multiple championships, international honors, and an unwavering commitment to the game despite numerous physical setbacks. His Instagram farewell encapsulated a career lived with passion, perseverance, and pride, leaving a lasting example for future generations of rugby league players.