Former England Captain Jamie George to Retire at End of 2026-27 Season
In a heartfelt announcement, former England captain Jamie George has revealed his plans to retire from professional rugby at the conclusion of the 2026-27 season. The 35-year-old hooker, who has been a cornerstone of both Saracens and the national team, will move into a new career in the business world after a remarkable career spanning over a decade.
A Career Defined by Excellence
Jamie George’s journey in rugby has been nothing short of extraordinary. The hooker, who joined Saracens’ academy at the tender age of 14, made his debut for the club in 2009. Since then, he has become a linchpin in the front row, playing a pivotal role in Saracens’ era of dominance, which includes six Premiership titles and three European Champions Cups. The most recent of these triumphs came in 2022, cementing his legacy as one of the club’s greatest players.
International Stardom
George’s excellence at the club level translated seamlessly to the international stage. Making his England debut in 2015, he quickly established himself as a key player in the national team. Captaining England in 2024 and serving as vice-captain to Maro Itoje, George has been an integral part of the team’s success over the years. He has won three Six Nations titles with England, including a Grand Slam in 2016, and was part of the squads that reached the World Cup final in 2019 and the semi-final in 2023.
A Lion’s Pride
Beyond his exploits with England, George has also been selected for the prestigious British and Irish Lions on three occasions. His tours to New Zealand in 2017, South Africa in 2021, and Australia in 2023 have further solidified his reputation as one of the finest rugby players of his generation. During the 2017 tour, he started all three Test matches as the Lions drew the series, showcasing his leadership and skill on the biggest stage.
A Legacy of Leadership
George’s leadership qualities have been evident throughout his career. His tenure as England captain was marked by resilience and determination, qualities that have become synonymous with his playing style. Even after stepping down as captain, his influence on the team remained significant, and he continued to inspire his teammates with his work ethic and passion for the game.
Saracens Through Thick and Thin
At Saracens, George’s loyalty and dedication have been unwavering. From his early days in the academy to his 300th appearance for the club in January 2025, he has been a constant presence in the Saracens lineup. His ability to adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the game and his relentless pursuit of excellence have made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the rugby community.
The Final Chapter
With his retirement announcement, George has expressed his desire to soak up every moment of his final season, ensuring that he finishes his career at Saracens in a successful manner. “I have always been very open and honest and I wanted to continue to do that with regards to my retirement,” George said. “I'm sure it seems early to be announcing this with another season to go, but I want to make sure I soak up every moment of my final season - I am more motivated than ever to finish my career at Saracens in a successful way.”
The Next Adventure
As George prepares to hang up his boots, he looks forward to embarking on a new journey in the business world. The transition from the rugby pitch to the boardroom will undoubtedly be a challenging one, but George’s determination and leadership skills will undoubtedly serve him well in his new endeavors. His legacy in rugby, however, will continue to inspire generations to come.
A Farewell to Remember
As the rugby world prepares to bid farewell to Jamie George, his contributions to the sport will not be forgotten. From his early days at Saracens to his international triumphs, George has etched his name in the annals of rugby history. His retirement marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on through the memories and achievements he has left behind.
The final season of Jamie George’s illustrious career promises to be a memorable one, as he continues to inspire and motivate those around him. As the rugby community prepares to say goodbye, one thing is certain: Jamie George’s impact on the sport will be remembered for years to come.
