Catalans confirm departure of Rémi Casty

Drew Darbyshire

Catalans have confirmed Rémi Casty has left the club after not being offered a new deal.

The 35-year-old made 336 appearances in 14 seasons with the Dragons and helped the club win the Challenge Cup in 2018.

Casty spent a season in the NRL with Sydney Roosters in 2014 and has earned 20 caps for his native France.

Catalans coach Steve McNamara said: “Rémi would go down in Catalans Dragons history as the captain of our first ever Challenge Cup final victory at Wembley.

“He has played a magic contribution in improving the overall professionalism and standards at the club. His drive, passion and desire to succeed has been clear every time he enters the field. He has given his all for the club and for that, I fully appreciate everything he has done not only my time as the coach but the time before also.

“This was amongst others an extremely difficult decision, Rémi expressed a desire to continue playing which I respect but we, as a club, had to assess the whole situation.

“We are an ageing team and we are in the process of readdressing the balance. We need to create some opportunities for our younger players and take into account the current financial situation.”

Casty said: “It was a huge pleasure to play for the Catalans Dragons. I grew up there as a man and a player, I also met some great people.

“I would like to thank all the employees who work at the club, all the players I played with, all the coaching and medical staff I worked with, the sponsors and of course all the fans who have been amazing during all my time at the club.”

Listen to The Final Hooter podcast, featuring exclusive interviews, every week. SUBSCRIBE to Love Rugby League on Apple Podcasts.