CATALANS DRAGONS and France captain Ben Garcia will retire at the end of this season – and take up the role of sporting director at the Perpignan club.
The 33-year-old has been a Dragons stalwart since his debut in 2013, making 282 appearances to date – behind only Rémi Casty and Julian Bousquet in their history.
Having earned 17 caps for France, he’ll play his 300th career game on Saturday if selected for Catalans’ home fixture with Leeds Rhinos.
Apart from a short spell with Penrith Panthers in 2016, where he played in the New South Wales Cup, Garcia has spent his whole career with Catalans.
He’s been part of all their greatest moments, including scoring a try in their 2018 Challenge Cup final victory over Warrington Wolves and leading them to the League Leaders’ Shield three years later in his first campaign as skipper.
“I have been considering this decision for several years and it was a difficult one to make, but I wanted to choose my exit,” said Garcia, who also captained Catalans in their 2021 and 2023 Grand Final defeats.
“I have been with the Dragons for 14 years. I have been privileged to experience all these moments with my club, the club I supported when I was a child.
“I was fortunate to have an exceptional career, to wear this jersey for many years and to share wonderful moments with my teammates, the fans and all the people who make this club possible.
“I am proud of the path I have travelled and grateful to all those who have supported me. In particular, I would like to thank my family who have always supported me throughout my career.
“Today, I’m eager to take on a new challenge. A new chapter will begin with the role of sporting director that will be entrusted to me next season.
“It’s a position that has always appealed to me, and I’ve prepared myself for it by obtaining the necessary qualifications.
“I see this opportunity as the natural next step in my career, and I’m excited to continue helping this club grow.”
Dragons president Bernard Guasch, said: “Benjamin embodies all the values we want to represent at the club.
“He dedicated his career to this club with exceptional loyalty and commitment.
“He always put the team before himself and was an example to everyone who had the privilege of working alongside him.
“His dedication, high standards, and love for the shirt were a source of inspiration for all who knew him.
“His retirement from playing marks the end of an era for the club, but we are delighted that he is beginning a new chapter with us.
“He carefully considered his decision to hang up his boots, we discussed the next steps in his career at length, and we are very pleased with his desire to remain with the club.
“He will continue to contribute his experience to help us progress both on and off the pitch in his new role as sporting director, a position left vacant by Neil McIlroy’s departure (last October).
“We would like to thank him for everything he has achieved here and for everything he will continue to contribute to the club in the years to come.”