The French superstar was one of the stars of the show in France’s win over Ireland on the opening night of the Six Nations
Louis Bielle-Biarrey of France(Image: Getty Images)
France wing Louis Bielle-Biarrey admits winning in Wales is “never easy” – and believes the uncertainty surrounding Welsh rugby could make Steve Tandy’s side dangerous in the Six Nations.
Les Bleus opened their campaign in emphatic fashion with victory over Ireland, with French superstar Bielle-Biarrey once again among the tries as France laid down an early marker in the championship.
But attention has already turned to the next block of fixtures – including a trip to Cardiff – and the Bordeaux flyer says France are under no illusions about the challenge that awaits.
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“We also have to win in Wales, which is never easy,” he said, per Midi Olympique.
“We know they are a team with very resilient players. They know they may have lost a franchise, and they’ll be determined to overperform.
“That’s how they approached their Champions Cup matches as well.
“Every player will want to show their best to secure a contract, knowing their club is at risk of folding.
“It’s unfortunate for them, but it can also motivate them to perform even better.
“We need to stay really vigilant, prepare well, and we hope it will work out.”
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His comments come amid ongoing uncertainty in Welsh rugby, with the WRU’s long-discussed plans to reduce the number of professional regions still hanging over the game.
The situation has created instability across squads, with players facing unclear futures beyond this season, particularly at the Ospreys, who are feared to be the region most at risk.
Rather than seeing that as a weakness, Bielle-Biarrey suggested it could galvanise Welsh players when France arrive.
France, meanwhile, head into the clash full of confidence after what the 22-year-old described as a “complete performance” against Ireland.
“We’re very happy,” he said. “I feel like we played a complete match defensively, offensively and in how we controlled the pitch, apart from a 15-minute lull in the second half.
“We stuck to our game plan and that’s really satisfying.”
Bielle-Biarrey admitted France were surprised by Ireland’s early aerial bombardment but felt his side coped well under pressure in difficult conditions.
“We weren’t expecting so many high balls so early, but it threw us in at the deep end and it worked out pretty well for us,” he added.
“We know we’ll be challenged like that throughout the tournament.”
France’s ambition, he made clear, is to win the title – meaning navigating hostile environments such as Cardiff will be essential.
“Our goal is to win the tournament, and to do that we have to win every match,” he said.