Section Paloise forward Josselin Bouhier has signed a one-year contract extension, keeping him with the Top 14 club until June 2027. The 23-year-old, who has become a staple of the France 7s setup, is now focusing on a selection for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games, according to statements from the club’s leadership.
Why the extension matters for France 7s
Bouhier’s decision to remain in Pau is tied to a tripartite agreement between the Section Paloise, the French Rugby Federation (FFR), and the player. This arrangement allows him to balance professional club training in Béarn with international duties at the National Rugby Center in Marcoussis.
According to Section Paloise head coach Sébastien Piqueronies, the club’s investment in Bouhier is a strategic move to ensure his development remains aligned with the national team’s long-term goals. Piqueronies stated that the organization’s "common objective" is to see the player compete in the 2028 Olympic Games. By securing his services through 2027, the club provides a stable environment for Bouhier to refine his skills as a prop on the international circuit.
A growing career on the world stage
Since arriving in Pau from Stade Rochelais in 2023, Bouhier has increasingly specialized in the sevens format. While his professional experience with the Pau first team has been limited to three Challenge Cup appearances, his impact on the international stage has been significant.
- International Debut: Bouhier made his debut on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit in January 2025.
- Recent Success: Ten days ago, he helped France win the final tournament of the World 7s Series in Bordeaux alongside teammate Grégoire Arfeuil.
- Development: He previously served as a key player for France 7 Développement, securing two European Championship titles.
The role of the tripartite agreement
The professional rugby landscape in France increasingly relies on these tripartite agreements to manage the dual demands of club and international sevens play. Unlike the traditional XVs model, the sevens circuit requires frequent travel and high-intensity training blocks that often conflict with Top 14 schedules.
For Bouhier, this structure provides the necessary support to maintain his physical conditioning. "The staff has accompanied me very well so far and believed in the France 7 project," Bouhier noted. As he eyes the Los Angeles cycle, his continued presence in the Top 14, supported by the FFR, serves as a blueprint for how smaller unions and the national federation can collaborate to retain emerging talent for Olympic participation.
With his contract now settled, the Nantes native is expected to continue his progression within the national setup, balancing the rigors of the world circuit with his club commitments in the Top 14.