Benjamin Garcia: Catalans Dragons stalwart to retire at end of 2026 Super League season and take up sporting director role

Catalans Dragons have announced that their captain Benjamin Garcia will retire at the end of the 2026 Super League season and take up the role of sporting director at the club.

Garcia has been with the French outfit since 2013 and has played at the top level for 14 seasons.

In his time with Catalans, Garcia has made 282 appearances and scored 42 tries, becoming the third-most capped player in the club's history.

Highlights in his career include winning the Challenge Cup and the League Leaders' Shield, while helping lead the club to two Super League Grand Finals in 2021 and 2023.

Upon retiring, Garcia will remain at the club he has called home in his new role after completing qualifications in sports management and sports organisation.

He said: "I have been thinking about this decision for several years, it has been a difficult one to make, but I wanted to choose the right moment to finish my playing career.

"I have spent fourteen years at the Dragons. I've been incredibly fortunate to experience all these moments with my club - the club I supported as a child.

"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 am proud of everything we've achieved and grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey, especially my family who have supported me all along my career.

"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."