After years of failing to compete up front, the Western Force have added some heavy timber up front by signing Argentina international Franco Molina to their pack.
With Darcy Swain and Jeremy Williams shouldering plenty of the grunt work up front last season, the addition of the 27-year-old, who recently came off the bench during Argentina’s win over the British and Irish Lions in Dublin, will help provide some depth and sting to the Force’s growing tight-five.
“Franco is a big, powerful body, with a high work rate. He’s in an age category that we want in that tight five group. He’s an international player, and he really wants to push for World Cup selection,” Force coach Simon Cron said.
“He’s very, very driven to be the best he can be. We both agree that Super Rugby and Perth is the place to help him do that.
“One of the big issues for us in 2025 was the ability to manage minutes with Jez (Jeremy Williams) and Darcy (Swain). Continuing to grow depth, and positional strength, for the squad is key at Super Rugby.
“He’ll complement that group that we’ve got in the tight five. He’s a hard worker, explosive, powerful and very fit. It’s an area where we’ve got to keep getting bigger, stronger and better at. Now he’ll join Lopeti Faifua, Darcy and Jez and add a lot to the team.”
The Western Force have signed Argentine international Franco Molina for the 2026 Super Rugby season. (Photo by Rodrigo Valle/Getty Images)
Molina, who has played 12 Tests since debuting last year, said he was excited to join the Force and work alongside Cron and the current crop of players in an emerging side.
“I’m incredibly honoured to be joining the Western Force, a club with such a rich history and passionate fanbase,” said Molina, who spent the past season at Exeter Chiefs.
“I’m especially excited to work alongside such a talented group of players. After my conversation with Simon Cron I knew this was the place for me.
“I can’t wait to contribute to the team, help the club achieve its goals and be part of something special here.”
