Catalans Dragons have continued their rebuild for 2026 and announced the signing of a Penrith Panthers forward, their fourth overseas signing.
Second row forward Zac Lipowicz will follow Toby Sexton, Solomona Faatape and Josh Allen, whilst Harvey Wilson has also signed from Salford Red Devils.
Like the rest of their recruits, Lipowicz helps bring the club’s average age down with the 23-year-old signing a two-year deal in Perpignan.
Lipowicz has previously been linked with Catalans and his deal has now been confirmed with Les Dracs making good on their promise of recruiting younger players, no longer serving as a retirement home for aging NRL players.
He’s yet to play in the NRL, only appearing in the pre-season trials for the current NRL champions, however, he has 46 games in the New South Wales Cup and has also represented Poland on the international stage as well.
Catalans Dragons make fourth overseas signing for 2026
Catalans announced his signing with a club statement, highlighting the second row’s qualities.
They explained: “A product of the Panthers system, the powerful 23-year-old Australian forward has already made close to 50 NSW Cup appearances with Penrith’s reserve team.
“Facing strong competition in his position, Zac Lipowicz has yet to make his NRL debut but has showcased his talent with the reserves, playing 46 NSW Cup matches and scoring 3 tries since his debut in 2023.
“An Australian of Polish descent, he represented Poland in 2023 in a match against North Macedonia. Zac Lipowicz scored a try on that occasion, helping his team to a 40-8 victory.”
Speaking on the move, Lipowicz said: “I’m stoked for the opportunity to come over and develop my game here at Catalans, learning off plenty of experienced heads throughout the staff and squad.
“Excited for what’s to come in our 20th season and beyond, pushing to add some silverware to the cabinet along the way.”
Head coach Joel Tomkins added: “I’m excited to welcome Zac into the squad and see his game develop over the next couple of seasons in Super League.
“After talking to Zac, I know he is coming over with a hunger to work hard and prove himself to his new teammates. I’m confident he will fit into the environment that I want to build next season.”
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