Rugby news: Maro Itoje confirms rugby retirement date

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.

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

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.

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.

Here’s a closer look at each departure and what it means for all parties involved.

Tom Willis headlines Saracens’ outgoing list, bringing an end to a powerful stint at the club where he established himself as one of the Premiership’s most effective No.8s. Renowned for his explosive ball-carrying and breakdown work, Willis has been a key figure in Saracens’ pack.

However, his move to Bordeaux carries major international implications. The back-row forward is set to have his central RFU contract cancelled following confirmation of the transfer, and he was subsequently dropped from England contention in line with selection policies regarding overseas-based players.

His switch to the Top 14 offers a lucrative new chapter, but it comes at the cost of his immediate international future. For Saracens, replacing his influence at the base of the scrum will be a significant challenge.

A long-serving and highly versatile member of the squad, Alex Lozowski departs having played a key role across multiple positions in the backline. Comfortable at fly-half, centre, or full-back, Lozowski has been valued for his tactical intelligence, distribution, and goal-kicking ability.

His move to Sale Sharks strengthens an already dangerous attacking unit and provides valuable Premiership experience. Saracens, meanwhile, lose not just depth but a player trusted in high-pressure situations.

Brandon Jackson’s exit reflects the ongoing evolution of Saracens’ squad. With opportunities limited, he now links up with Newcastle Red Bulls in search of consistent first-team rugby.

The move offers him a platform to develop further and gain valuable minutes, while Saracens free up space for emerging academy talent to step into the senior setup.

Harry Wilson departs for Exeter Chiefs as he looks to take the next step in his career. A physical and industrious back-row forward, Wilson has found opportunities hard to come by in a competitive Saracens squad.

At Exeter, he will aim to secure more regular game time and establish himself as a key contributor within their forward pack.

Italy international prop Marco Riccioni moves on to Perpignan, ending his time in the Saracens front row. Known for his scrummaging strength and reliability at set-piece, Riccioni has been an important squad player.

His move to France offers the chance for consistent Top 14 rugby, while Saracens will need to bolster their front-row depth to compensate for his departure.

Samson Adejimi also makes the switch to Newcastle Red Bulls, joining Brandon Jackson in heading north. Still developing his game, Adejimi will benefit from increased exposure and responsibility at his new club.

His departure is part of Saracens’ wider squad reshaping, allowing younger players to pursue opportunities elsewhere while the club refines its roster.