The Art of Play: Louis Bielle-Biarrey

The Napapijri Bulletin is a monthly editorial project that tells the extraordinary stories of extraordinary people. Cultural adventurers, friends of the brand, modern explorers: each month, The Bulletin celebrates those who dare to abandon the known maps to chart unexpected territories.

The Art of Play: Louis Bielle-Biarrey

At just 22, Louis Bielle-Biarrey is redefining what it means to be a rising star in French rugby, blazing down the pitch with speed, instinct, and an unwavering sense of fair play. But beyond the roar of the stadium, Louis reveals a different side: a love for chess, where strategy and patience take center stage, and a passion for travel that feeds his curiosity and broadens his horizons.

Do you remember the first time you touched a rugby ball?

I remember my first training sessions at my local club, I immediately felt in my element. I loved the sport, I loved being with my friends, and I loved the idea of fighting together as a team. I have been playing rugby since I was five. I never really considered stopping, so that makes it almost 20 years now. During that time, I also did a bit of athletics, some judo, some handball and badminton, but rugby was the one that truly stayed with me.

You’re originally from Grenoble, a city surrounded by mountains and not far from the sea. What activities satisfy your sense of adventure and your need to stay active when you’re not playing rugby?

During the summer holidays, which is when I really take time to rest, I love going hiking and heading out for long walks. I have always been a true nature lover, and being from Grenoble certainly helps. When I was younger, although it is not really allowed anymore, I loved skiing. I enjoyed going to the mountains with friends and making the most of those moments together. I was pretty good at it, but I had to stop because of rugby. So that is where my adventurous side comes from. I love the mountains, nature, and the great outdoors. That is where I feel most at home.

Do you remember the first time you touched a rugby ball?

I remember my first training sessions at my local club, I immediately felt in my element. I loved the sport, I loved being with my friends, and I loved the idea of fighting together as a team. I have been playing rugby since I was five. I never really considered stopping, so that makes it almost 20 years now. During that time, I also did a bit of athletics, some judo, some handball and badminton, but rugby was the one that truly stayed with me.

You’re originally from Grenoble, a city surrounded by mountains and not far from the sea. What activities satisfy your sense of adventure and your need to stay active when you’re not playing rugby?

During the summer holidays, which is when I really take time to rest, I love going hiking and heading out for long walks. I have always been a true nature lover, and being from Grenoble certainly helps. When I was younger, although it is not really allowed anymore, I loved skiing. I enjoyed going to the mountains with friends and making the most of those moments together. I was pretty good at it, but I had to stop because of rugby. So that is where my adventurous side comes from. I love the mountains, nature, and the great outdoors. That is where I feel most at home.

We know you’re passionate about chess. How did it become part of your life, and what does it mean to you?

I’ve always loved chess, even when I was a kid. My dad says I was interested in it from a very young age, but over the past year or so, I’ve really got into it properly. I play a lot, mostly on my phone, and sometimes with friends. What I like most is the reflection, the strategy, and the need to anticipate several moves ahead. It is completely different from rugby. It is calm and silent, but it requires just as much focus. It helps me decompress while keeping my mind sharp.

Are you planning any trips in the next few weeks? If so, where are you heading?

Yes, funny you should ask because on Monday I’m heading to Lapland with my girlfriend. I’ve been wanting to go for quite a while. Being from Grenoble, I love the cold, the snow, and everything that comes with it. I’m really happy about it. I’m leaving on Monday for a week, and it will be a proper rest period, which I think I need after the last few weeks with the French team. I can’t wait to recharge, spend quality time, and enjoy the cold.

Do you think your travels have influenced your game or the way you approach rugby?

I don’t think it has changed the way I play, but it has definitely shaped the way I see life. Travelling makes you realise so much. It opens you up to other cultures, different lifestyles, and new ways of thinking and doing things.

If your career were an adventure, what chapter comes next?

I’m not sure exactly how many chapters there will be, but maybe I’d compare myself to a climber who sets off and rises little by little, higher and higher. For now, I still feel like I’m at the beginning of my career. I’ve climbed a few hills, but there is still so much left to discover: passes to cross, tough mountains to face, and great challenges ahead. I’m proud of what I’ve already achieved, but I know there are still some incredible moments to come.

Do you think your travels have influenced your game or the way you approach rugby?

I don’t think it has changed the way I play, but it has definitely shaped the way I see life. Travelling makes you realise so much. It opens you up to other cultures, different lifestyles, and new ways of thinking and doing things.

If your career were an adventure, what chapter comes next?

I’m not sure exactly how many chapters there will be, but maybe I’d compare myself to a climber who sets off and rises little by little, higher and higher. For now, I still feel like I’m at the beginning of my career. I’ve climbed a few hills, but there is still so much left to discover: passes to cross, tough mountains to face, and great challenges ahead. I’m proud of what I’ve already achieved, but I know there are still some incredible moments to come.