Serge Blanco Enters 2026 Biarritz Mayoral Race to Revive Community Trust and Tackle Local Issues

Serge Blanco, the renowned French rugby legend, has officially announced his candidacy for mayor of Biarritz in the 2026 municipal elections. At 67, Blanco, a lifelong resident of the city, cited a deep concern over the fragmentation and loss of trust between residents and the current city government as his primary motivation. He aims to "redonner l’élan" (restore momentum) to the city, emphasizing the need to strengthen community cohesion.

Blanco's candidacy follows his active participation in protests against a contentious real estate project at Aguilera, the last public land available in Biarritz, which has sparked community conflict due to rising housing prices and the proliferation of second homes. This project has led to tensions involving current mayor Maider Arosteguy and former Biarritz Olympique club president Jean-Baptiste Aldigé.

The former rugby player, who earned 93 caps for France and has held multiple leadership positions in rugby administration, underlined three main pillars for his campaign: sound financial management, ecological transition, and enhancing local democratic practices. While he hasn't declared a formal political alignment, his supporters generally lean towards the center-right.

Mayor Arosteguy has acknowledged Blanco's commitment to the city's future. Blanco's political engagement is seen as part of a trend of prominent sports figures entering politics, similar to Jean-Michel Aulas's candidacy in Lyon. His entry into politics is seen as a serious, deliberate step rather than an impulsive move, rooted in his lifelong connection to Biarritz.