St Helens legend Jonny Lomax to retire at end of 2026 Super League season
The 36-year-old’s departure marks the end of a decorated era for the club as St Helens fights to secure a play-off spot in a tightly contested league.
St Helens legend Jonny Lomax will retire at the conclusion of the 2026 Super League season. The 36-year-old announced his decision on Tuesday, confirming a long-held plan to end his playing career after 18 professional years in the sport.
Lomax has not featured for the team since fracturing his jaw during a defeat to Warrington Wolves in June. His extensive career has been marked by a significant physical toll, including 19 operations, with 12 knee surgeries completed by the age of 26.
Over the course of 388 appearances, he helped St Helens secure five Grand Finals, one Challenge Cup, and a World Club Challenge. On the international stage, he earned four caps for Great Britain and 11 for England, notably featuring in the 2017 World Cup final against Australia.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Lomax described his career as living out a boyhood dream that achieved far more than he could ever have imagined. He expressed deep gratitude for the life the sport provided, noting he leaves with the scars to prove it but still feels lucky.
He emphasized his pride in representing and captaining his hometown club, calling the opportunity to represent England and Great Britain the pinnacle of his career. He also extended his thanks to those who supported him throughout his two decades in the game.
His impending departure arrives at a critical juncture for St Helens, who currently sit seventh in the Super League standings with 28 points. With only three games remaining in the regular season, the club must leapfrog Hull KR, Leigh Leopards, or Wakefield Trinity to secure a play-off position.
The broader race for the postseason remains highly competitive, though Leeds Rhinos, Wigan Warriors, and Warrington Wolves have already qualified. Wigan remains tied with Leeds on 38 points but holds an inferior point differential, while Warrington sits two points back in third.
For broadcasters and regional audiences, the conclusion of the season represents a key period for viewership and engagement. Sky Sports will transmit every Super League game live this season, featuring two exclusive matches per round, with the remaining five fixtures available on Sky Sports+.
