Jonny Lomax, the celebrated veteran of St Helens Rugby League, has confirmed that he will step away from professional play at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League campaign. The announcement, made on Tuesday, brings to a close a remarkable career that has spanned two decades and left an indelible mark on both club and country.
Lomax’s final season will be his 18th as a full‑time professional, though his association with the Saints stretches back over 20 years, beginning in the junior ranks and culminating in a storied senior tenure. Since breaking into the first‑team, he has amassed 388 appearances for St Helens, a tally that places him among the most capped players in the club’s modern era.
During that time he helped the team secure five Grand Final victories, lifted the Challenge Cup once, and added a World Club Challenge title to his collection. Internationally, Lomax has worn the Great Britain jersey on four occasions and represented England eleven times. His most prominent moment on the world stage came in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup final, where he took to the field against a dominant Australian side. Although England fell short, Lomax’s performance cemented his reputation as a player capable of thriving under the brightest lights.
The decision to retire was communicated through a heartfelt Instagram post. In his message, 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 the journey that began as a childhood dream, noting that he had achieved far beyond what he ever imagined when he first picked up a ball. "Representing and captaining my hometown club and, of course, the pinnacle, representing England and Great Britain," he continued, underscoring the pride he feels in having led St Helens as captain and having earned the honor of national selection. Lomax also addressed the physical toll his body has endured, acknowledging nineteen surgeries—including twelve knee operations completed before he turned 26—as the visible proof of his commitment.
"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 said, before expressing gratitude to the supporters who have stood by him throughout his career. Lomax’s final months with the Saints come at a crucial juncture for the club.
Currently sitting on 28 points, St Helens occupy seventh place in the Super League table, just outside the playoff positions with three fixtures remaining. To secure a postseason berth, they 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).
The race is tight, and every point earned in the closing stages will be vital. Meanwhile, the league’s leaders, Leeds Rhinos, have already locked in a playoff spot, while Wigan Warriors sit level on 38 points but trail on point differential. Warrington Wolves, currently third, have also guaranteed their place in the post‑season.
The pressure on St Helens to finish strong is palpable, and Lomax’s experience will be a valuable asset as the squad pushes for those crucial victories. Fans can follow the remaining matches live via Sky Sports, which has secured broadcast rights for the entire Super League season.
Two games per round are shown exclusively on the main Sky Sports channel, while the other five fixtures are available on the Sky Sports+ streaming platform. The network also promotes the "Bench" podcast, hosted by Jenna and Jon, offering analysis and behind‑the‑scenes insight for listeners who want a deeper dive into the league’s storylines.
Beyond the immediate implications for St Helens, Lomax’s retirement marks the end of an era for a player who has become synonymous with the club’s modern identity. His leadership on the field, his resilience in the face of repeated injuries, and his unwavering loyalty to his hometown team have earned him a place in the hearts of supporters across the region.
As the 2026 season draws to a close, the rugby league community will reflect on his contributions and anticipate the next chapter of his involvement with the sport, whether it be in coaching, mentorship, or media work. In his own words, Lomax hopes he has made his fans proud.
"For those that have supported me throughout it all... I hope I have been able to do you proud," he concluded. The sentiment captures the mutual respect between player and supporters—a relationship forged over countless matches, triumphs, and the inevitable setbacks that come with a high‑impact career.
As the Saints aim to climb the table and secure a playoff berth, Lomax’s final season will be remembered not just for the statistics he adds to his record, but for the inspiration he provides to younger players aspiring to follow in his footsteps. His story exemplifies dedication, perseverance, and the fulfillment of a lifelong ambition to represent the club and country at the highest level.
The upcoming weeks will be closely watched by fans, analysts, and former teammates alike, all eager to see how Lomax’s legacy will be celebrated on the field one last time before he steps away from the professional game at the age of 36.