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, made on Tuesday, marks the end of an era for a player who has become synonymous with the club’s modern successes. Lomax’s final season has already been clouded by injury. He has not taken the field since suffering a fractured jaw during the Saints’ loss to the Warrington Wolves in June.
Despite this setback, his career statistics speak volumes: 388 first‑team appearances, five Grand Final victories, a Challenge Cup triumph and a World Club Challenge title. These achievements place him among the most decorated players in the club’s history. On the international stage, Lomax earned four caps for Great Britain and eleven for England. His most memorable moment in a England shirt came in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, where he helped the team reach the showdown against Australia.
The veteran used his Instagram account to share a heartfelt farewell message. He 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 he had lived out a childhood dream and achieved far beyond his early expectations.
"Representing and captaining my hometown club and, of course, the pinnacle, representing England and Great Britain," he added. Lomax, now 36, expressed gratitude for the life the sport has afforded him, acknowledging the physical toll it has taken. He cited 19 operations in total, including an astonishing twelve knee surgeries completed before he turned 26. "Despite this, I still feel lucky," he said, emphasizing his appreciation for the support he has received throughout his career.
"For those that have supported me throughout it all... I hope I have been able to do you proud." The announcement comes at a crucial juncture for the Saints. Currently sitting on 28 points, they occupy seventh place in the Super League table, just outside the play‑off positions with three matches remaining. To secure a spot in the postseason, St Helens must overtake 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)—in the final stretch of the season.
Meanwhile, the league leaders Leeds Rhinos, along with Wigan Warriors (tied on 38 points but trailing on points differential) and Warrington Wolves (two points back in third), have already locked in their play‑off berths. The race for the remaining spots promises to be intense, and the Saints will be looking to finish Lomax’s career on a high note.
Fans can follow every Super League fixture this season via Sky Sports, which will broadcast all matches live. Two games each round will be shown exclusively on the main channel, while the remaining five will be available on Sky Sports+. For those who prefer streaming, the league’s official website offers live coverage, though a Chrome browser is recommended for optimal video playback. The news of Lomax’s retirement also sparked discussion among pundits and former players on the popular "Bench" podcast hosted by Jenna and Jon.
They highlighted his leadership qualities, his versatility across the backline, and his resilience in overcoming repeated injuries. Many noted that Lomax’s decision to retire at 36, after a career riddled with surgeries yet still marked by high‑level performance, underscores his professionalism and dedication to the game. Looking ahead, St Helens will need to consider succession planning for the key roles Lomax filled, particularly in the halves and as a senior figure in the dressing room. The club’s coaching staff have already hinted at promoting younger talent from their academy, aiming to blend fresh energy with the experience of remaining veterans.
In summary, Jonny Lomax’s forthcoming retirement signals the conclusion of a remarkable chapter in St Helens’ history. His contributions on the field—spanning Grand Final victories, international caps, and countless memorable moments—have left an indelible mark on the sport. As the 2026 season draws to a close, supporters will have the chance to celebrate his legacy and wish him well in the next phase of his life, whatever path he chooses beyond rugby league.