Serge Blanco, Rugby Legend, Elected Mayor of Biarritz

Biarritz, France – In a stunning turn of events, Serge Blanco, the celebrated former fullback for both the French national rugby team and Biarritz Olympique, has been elected mayor of his adopted city. The election, held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, saw Blanco defeat incumbent Maider Arosteguy, marking a significant shift in the political landscape of the Basque coastal town.

Blanco’s victory follows a closely contested campaign, where he positioned himself as a fresh voice for Biarritz. He secured 41.92% of the vote, surpassing Arosteguy’s 32.21% and Ana Ezcurra’s 25.87%, according to official results. The win is particularly remarkable given that Blanco trailed Arosteguy by a mere 12 votes after the first round of voting. A strategic alliance with Jean-Baptiste Dussaussois-Larralde proved decisive in securing his win in the second round.

From Rugby Icon to Political Leader

Born in Caracas, Venezuela, in 1958, Blanco arrived in Biarritz with his mother at the age of two following the death of his father. He quickly found a home in the city and, more importantly, on the rugby pitch. Blanco spent his entire professional career with Biarritz Olympique, becoming a symbol of the club and the city itself. He represented France 93 times, earning the nickname “the Pelé of Rugby” for his electrifying play and remarkable skill.

Blanco’s international career spanned from 1980 to 1991, during which he earned 93 caps for France, 81 of them at fullback. He was a key player in France’s Six Nations Grand Slam victories in 1981 and 1987. Perhaps his most iconic moment came during the 1987 Rugby World Cup, where he scored a crucial try against Australia in the semi-final, propelling France to the final. Though France ultimately lost to New Zealand in the championship match, Blanco’s contribution cemented his place in rugby history.

Despite his success on the international stage, Blanco never secured a French Championship title with Biarritz Olympique, falling short in the 1992 final against Toulon. He retired after that match, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest rugby players of all time. In 1997, he was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport.

A Second Act: From the Pitch to the Political Arena

Following his retirement from rugby, Blanco transitioned into the business world, demonstrating a versatility that mirrored his on-field agility. He initially worked in various roles, including a stint at Dassault and in public relations for Pernod, before venturing into entrepreneurship. He established a successful thalassotherapy center and a clothing brand, showcasing his business acumen. However, his foray into the hospitality industry faced challenges, with his holding company entering liquidation in January 2020 after years of financial difficulties.

Throughout his post-playing career, Blanco remained deeply connected to rugby, serving as the first president of the Ligue Nationale de Rugby from 1998 to 2008 and holding multiple positions within Biarritz Olympique, including a second term as president from 2008 to 2015. He also served as a vice-president of the French Rugby Federation (FFR), where he often found himself at odds with subsequent leadership.

Blanco’s decision to enter local politics marked a new chapter in his multifaceted career. He announced his candidacy in December 2025, stating his desire to “rededicate himself to Biarritz” and restore the city’s vibrancy. His campaign resonated with voters seeking change, and his deep roots in the community proved to be a significant advantage.

“I Think the People of Biarritz Want Change”

Following his victory, Blanco expressed his gratitude to the voters and outlined his vision for the city. “I think the people of Biarritz want change,” he stated, emphasizing his commitment to representing the interests of all residents. He pledged to prioritize a human-centered approach to governance, focusing on respect and inclusivity. He also noted his long-standing connection to the city, stating, “I am apolitical. I live for Biarritz and I will die in Biarritz.”

The election of Serge Blanco represents a unique moment for Biarritz, bringing a celebrated sporting figure into the highest office in the city. His transition from rugby icon to mayor will undoubtedly be closely watched, both locally and internationally. The challenge now lies in translating his passion for Biarritz and his proven leadership skills into effective governance.

As Blanco prepares to take office, the residents of Biarritz are hopeful that his arrival will usher in a new era of progress and prosperity for their beloved coastal city. The next steps for Blanco involve forming a new municipal team and outlining a detailed plan for addressing the city’s key priorities.

What’s Next: Blanco is expected to announce his key cabinet appointments within the next two weeks and will hold a public town hall meeting in April to discuss his initial priorities for Biarritz.

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