Super League: Wigan captain Liam Farrell announces plan to retire at end of 2026 season

The 36-year-old, who has only ever played for the Warriors, will call time on a career which has spanned 17 professional seasons. Farrell has captained Wigan since 2023 and been capped 12 times by England.

He has totalled 428 appearances for Wigan and scored 151 tries, winning six Super League titles, five Challenge Cups and two World Club Challenge successes during his illustrious career.

Wigan will play their final league game of the season against Catalans on Friday before beginning their play-off campaign, live on Sky Sports.

In an emotional video posted on social media, Farrell shared images from his time at Wigan and thanked team-mates and supporters.

Farrell said: "It's been a whirlwind of a career, more than I could ever have dreamed of doing.

"Although I'll be sad not to be playing anymore, I'm also very grateful for the career that I have had and I can now look forward to the next part of my life."

He added: "You have to make the right call at the right time, and I think I have done that. Speaking to people close to me, professionals and the advice I have been given, it's the right time.

"Playing one game for Wigan was always the goal for me. If I had have done that and never played again I'd have been immensely proud, my family would have been proud and we'd have gone back to being Wigan fans.

"So to have been able to play over 400 games in this jersey has been nothing short of incredible."

Wigan's chief executive Kris Radlinski confirmed Farrell will remain in a role with the club, saying: "Liam will go down as one of Wigan's greatest players. Sustaining excellence for so many years requires extraordinary commitment, resilience and mental strength.

"He has always put the team first, carried himself with quiet humility, and earned the respect of everyone connected with the club. His legacy is secure and he deserves to be celebrated.

"Liam will remain at the club in an S&C capacity after gaining his qualifications alongside his playing career. Alongside this role, his knowledge and experience will help develop the next generation of Warriors leaders."

Wigan boss Matt Peet added: "Anyone who's watched Wigan over the last 17 years will know what Liam Farrell means to the Club.

"The way he's played, the trophies he's lifted, moments in big games, times he's played injured or out of position, and always carried himself impeccably.

Sky Sports will show every game of the Super League live this season, including the play-offs. Don't miss 'Frantic Friday' as Wigan seek to secure the League Leaders' Shield live on Sky Sports Main Event from 7pm. Not got Sky? Latest Sky Sports deals or stream Super League with no contract