The Catalans Dragons wing, 34, spent the majority of his career with St Helens between 2011 and 2024, winning five Super League titles in 2014, 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022 and making more than 300 appearances.
Makinson also won a World Club Challenge, a Challenge Cup and four League Leaders' Shields with Saints, and was selected in the Super League Dream Team on three occasions.
A prolific try scorer, Makinson scored over 200 tries for St Helens and has since notched 20 tries in 37 appearances for Catalans after joining the club ahead of the 2025 season. He also represented England over 20 times.
"As the 2026 season moves towards its final stages, I feel now is the right time to announce that this will be my final season as a professional rugby league player," Makinson posted on Instagram.
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"Rugby league has been incredibly kind to me, and when I look back on the journey I've been on, I feel nothing but pride and gratitude. I've been very fortunate to live out a dream I had as a kid and represent some of the biggest clubs both in England and France and also the pinnacle which is representing my country.
"There have been so many highs, some difficult moments, incredible memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. I wouldn't have been able to experience any of it without the unbelievable support I've had from my family, friends, team-mates, coaches, staff, supporters and everyone who has played a part in my career. To each and every one of you, thank you.
"I've still got a few games left, and I want to enjoy every second of them. I'll be taking it all in, appreciating the moments and giving everything I have to finish this chapter of my career in the best possible way.
"It's hard to put into words what rugby league has given me, but I know how lucky I am to have lived this life and played the game I love for as long as I have."
Sky Sports will show every game of the Super League live this season, including two matches each round exclusively live. The remaining five matches will be broadcast on Sky Sports+.
