Louis Picamoles, a renowned No 8 in the rugby realm, has garnered attention following his announcement of retirement at the age of 38. With an illustrious career encompassing 82 caps for France and numerous triumphs at prestigious clubs, Picamoles has embarked on an unexpected venture.
Subsequent to his retirement, Picamoles ventured into an agricultural project, focusing on goat farming in pursuit of establishing a sustainable business centred around cheese production and farm tours. However, the French agricultural landscape posed unforeseen challenges. EU regulations governing agriculture presented financial constraints and uncertainties, prompting Picamoles to reassess his prospects. The aspiring farmer chose to suspend his goat farming venture due to the high costs and risks involved, a decision driven by his commitment to ensuring the financial security and well-being of his family.
Notwithstanding his shift away from farming, Picamoles remained actively involved in advocating for France’s rural communities. He positioned himself as a candidate in the European elections, aligning with Alliance Rurale, an organization dedicated to preserving French rural traditions and addressing the decline of public services in isolated areas. He emphasized the significance of supporting these causes while acknowledging the formidable challenges faced by residents in rural settings.
In addition to his role in the agricultural and political spheres, Picamoles reminisced about his experiences of playing against England in the Six Nations tournament during his tenure with Northampton. He conveyed his excitement for the upcoming Crunch match while sharing cherished memories of competing against his English club teammates on the international stage.
As Picamoles embarks on this new phase, his story stands as a testament to the diverse paths pursued by sports personalities post-retirement. While the rugby world bids farewell to an icon on the field, Louis Picamoles continues to champion causes close to his heart, exemplifying a commitment to community and rural values.