Jonny Lomax, the celebrated veteran 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 via a heartfelt Instagram post, marking the end of an era for one of the sport’s most enduring figures.
Lomax’s career with the Saints has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since breaking into the first‑team squad, he has amassed a staggering 388 appearances for the club.
During that time he helped St Helens secure five Grand Final victories, lift the Challenge Cup once, and triumph in a World Club Challenge. His contributions on the field have been pivotal in establishing St Helens as a dominant force in English rugby league over the past two decades. On the international stage, Lomax earned four caps for Great Britain and eleven caps for England.
Among his many highlights was playing in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, where England faced a formidable Australian side. Though the final did not go England's way, Lomax’s performance cemented his reputation as a world‑class play‑maker. In his Instagram statement, 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.” He went on to reflect on his 20‑year journey, noting that 18 of those years were spent as a professional athlete.
“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 the sport has taken on his body. “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 operations by the age of 26,” he revealed.
Despite the relentless injuries, he expressed a sense of gratitude: “Despite this, I still feel lucky.” He concluded his message by thanking the supporters who have stood by him throughout his career: “For those that have supported me throughout it all… I hope I have been able to do you proud.” The timing of Lomax’s retirement comes at a crucial juncture for St Helens. Currently the team sits on 28 points, occupying seventh place in the Super League table with three matches remaining in the regular season.
This position places them just outside the playoff spots, meaning they must overtake at least one of the teams ahead of them – Hull KR (sixth with 30 points), Leigh Leopards (fifth with 32 points), or Wakefield Trinity (fourth with 32 points) – to secure a place in the postseason. Meanwhile, the league leaders Leeds Rhinos have already clinched a playoff berth, as have Wigan Warriors, who sit level on 38 points but trail on points differential, and Warrington Wolves, who sit in third place. All three have qualified for the postseason, leaving St Helens with a final push to try and join them. For fans eager to follow the concluding fixtures, Sky Sports will broadcast every Super League game live this season.
Two matches each round will be shown exclusively on the main Sky Sports channel, while the remaining five matches per round will be available on Sky Sports+. This comprehensive coverage ensures that supporters can keep track of St Helens’ final push for a playoff spot and witness Lomax’s last appearances on the field.
Beyond the immediate implications for the club’s standings, Lomax’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in rugby league history. Over his 18‑year professional career, he has been celebrated for his versatility, vision, and leadership.
Whether orchestrating attacking plays from the half‑back position or stepping in as captain to inspire his teammates, Lomax consistently demonstrated a blend of skill and determination that set him apart. His legacy extends beyond trophies and caps; he has been a role model for younger players and a beloved figure among the St Helens faithful.
The number of operations he endured – 19 in total, with a staggering 12 on his knees before turning 26 – underscores the physical sacrifices he made in pursuit of excellence. Yet, his resilience and commitment never wavered, earning him respect across the sport.
Looking ahead, Lomax hinted that retirement was always part of his long‑term plan. By announcing his intention now, he gives both the club and his supporters ample time to celebrate his achievements and prepare for the transition. While the exact details of his post‑playing career remain private, many anticipate that his deep knowledge of the game could see him move into coaching, punditry, or ambassadorial roles within rugby league.
In summary, Jonny Lomax’s decision to retire at the end of the 2026 season brings a distinguished career to a close. His record of 388 club appearances, five Grand Final wins, a Challenge Cup triumph, a World Club Challenge victory, and numerous international caps paints the picture of a player who consistently performed at the highest level. As St Helens chase the final points needed to re‑enter the playoff picture, fans will have one last opportunity to witness Lomax’s skill, tenacity, and passion on the field before he steps away from professional play.
For those who have followed his journey, the sentiment is clear: Lomax has given everything to the sport, endured countless injuries, and emerged as a true legend of the game. His retirement will be felt deeply, but his legacy will endure in the annals of St Helens history and the broader rugby league community.