"I don’t want to leave rugby when I’m clinging on" - Maro Itoje reveals retirement date

Monday, 23 March 2026 at 15:35

byRugby Rucker

Maro Itoje has revealed when he expects to bring his illustrious career to a close — and the clock is now ticking.

Speaking to The Times in July 2025, the Saracens lock revealed he intends to retire at 35. With Itoje currently 31, that sets his exit for 2029.

That timeline leaves just one more Rugby World Cup in an England shirt.

“I want to go out on my terms”

Itoje was clear that his decision is about control, longevity and legacy.

“When I’m 35. That’s a healthy age to retire. It’s a good age to throw yourself at a new challenge and it gives me a good four years to really dip into the rugby.

I don’t want to leave rugby when I’m clinging on. I want to go out on my terms, while I’m fit.”

It’s a typically measured response from a player who has built a career on discipline, intelligence and elite standards. No hanging on for one season too many. No fading quietly. Just a firm line in the sand.

One last World Cup shot

If everything goes to plan, Itoje will enter the next global tournament in his mid-30s – battle-hardened, experienced and still central to England’s pack. After that, the curtain falls.

For a player who debuted as a 21-year-old phenom and became one of the faces of English rugby, 2029 suddenly doesn’t feel far away.

His toughest opponent? An All Blacks icon

During the same Q&A, Itoje was also asked about the most formidable opponent he’s faced. His answer: former Kieran Read captain and All Blacks legend.

Itoje admitted he initially underestimated the world-class No.8.

“Before playing him, my analysis was ‘not that big; can’t be that strong’. Wrong.

He carried hard, he tackled hard, he was a great lineout jumper, and he was so clever. He was as complete a back-row forward as one could get.”

High praise from one of the game’s premier second-rows.

With four years left on the clock, Itoje’s mission is simple: empty the tank, chase silverware, and ensure that when 35 arrives, he walks away with nothing left to give.

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