Catalans Dragons have introduced that their captain Benjamin Garcia will retire on the finish of the 2026 Tremendous League season and take up the position of sporting director on the membership.
Garcia has been with the French outfit since 2013 and has performed on the high degree for 14 seasons.
In his time with Catalans, Garcia has made 282 appearances and scored 42 tries, changing into the third-most capped participant within the membership’s historical past.
Highlights in his profession embrace successful the Problem Cup and the League Leaders’ Protect, whereas serving to lead the membership to 2 Tremendous League Grand Finals in 2021 and 2023.
Upon retiring, Garcia will stay on the membership he has known as dwelling in his new position after finishing {qualifications} in sports activities administration and sports activities organisation.
He mentioned: “I’ve been enthusiastic about this resolution for a number of years, it has been a tough one to make, however I needed to decide on the suitable second to complete my taking part in profession.
“I’ve spent fourteen years on the Dragons. I have been extremely lucky to expertise all these moments with my membership – the membership I supported as a toddler.
“I have had the privilege of enjoying an exceptional career, wearing this jersey for so many years and sharing unforgettable moments with my teammates, our supporters and everyone involved in that club.
“I’m happy with every part we have achieved and grateful to everybody who has supported me all through my journey, particularly my household who’ve supported me all alongside my profession.
“Today, I’m excited to take on a new challenge as a sporting director. It’s a role that has always appealed to me, and one I’ve prepared for by completing the necessary qualifications. I see this opportunity as the natural next step in my career, and I’m looking forward to continuing to help this club grow.”
Bernard Guasch, Catalans Dragons chairman, added: “Benjamin embodies everything we want this club to stand for. He has dedicated his career to the Dragons with exceptional loyalty and commitment. He has always put the team before himself and has been a role model for everyone who has worked alongside him.
“His dedication, professionalism and keenness for this jersey have impressed everybody round him. His retirement as a participant marks the top of an essential chapter within the membership’s historical past, however we’re delighted that he’s starting a brand new one with us.
“We have had many discussions about the next stage of his career, and we’re thrilled that he has chosen to remain with the club.
“He’ll proceed to convey his expertise and management to assist us progress each on and off the sector in his new position as sporting director, a place that has been vacant since Neil McIlroy’s departure.
“We would like to thank him for everything he has achieved during his playing career and for everything he will continue to bring to the club in the years ahead.”
Tremendous League 2026 – upcoming key dates
- Rivals Spherical reversed: July 23-July 26
- Elimination Play-offs: September 19-September 20
- Play-off semi-finals: September 26-September 27
- Grand Remaining: October 3
Sky Sports activities will present each sport of the Tremendous League dwell this season, together with two matches every spherical completely dwell. The remaining 5 matches shall be broadcast on Sky Sports activities+.
