Maro Itoje sets retirement date – and it’s closer than you think

Monday, 16 February 2026 at 08:25

byRugby Rucker

England captain Maro Itoje has lifted the lid on when he plans to call time on his glittering career – and the countdown is officially on.

Watch the Guinness Six Nations at your local Greene King sports pub.

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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Maro Itoje facts:

1️⃣ He Was a National Poetry Champion

As a teenager, Itoje won the 2014 Poetry by Heart national competition in the UK, performing classical poetry from memory. He’s long been known for his confidence in public speaking and love of literature.

2️⃣ Head Boy at School

He was Head Boy at St George’s School, Harpenden, reflecting leadership qualities that later became central to his rugby career.

3️⃣ He Competed in Shot Put at National Level

Before focusing entirely on rugby, Itoje competed seriously in shot put and discus, reaching national-level competitions in England.
That explosive power training translated directly into:

Dominant scrummaging strength
Lineout lift and jumping explosiveness
Physicality in contact situations

He wasn’t just dabbling — he was a genuinely strong track and field athlete.

4️⃣ Deep Involvement in Fashion & Art

Itoje is active in the London fashion scene and has worked with major designers. He’s also passionate about contemporary African art and uses his platform to promote culture beyond sport.

5️⃣ He Co-Founded The Pearl Fund

He helped establish The Pearl Fund, supporting educational initiatives for children in Nigeria — reflecting his strong connection to his Nigerian heritage.