Brief Introduction of Arthur Iturria
Arthur Iturria is a distinguished French international rugby union player, celebrated for his exceptional versatility and athleticism on the field. Primarily playing as a lock or a flanker, Iturria has carved out a formidable reputation in the highly competitive French Top 14 league. Standing at an imposing 1.98 meters (6 feet 6 inches), his career is marked by significant achievements at both the club and international levels. He was a key figure in ASM Clermont Auvergne’s Top 14 championship victory in 2017 and their European Rugby Challenge Cup triumph in 2019. A proud representative of his Basque heritage, Iturria’s journey from a young enthusiast at US Morlaàs to a seasoned international and captain at Aviron Bayonnais showcases his dedication and profound impact on French rugby. His dynamic playing style, leadership qualities, and commitment to his roots make him a respected and influential figure in the sport.
Arthur Iturria Overview
| Full Name | Arthur Iturria |
| Date of Birth | May 13, 1994 |
| Age(as of 2025) | 31 |
| Birthplace | Pau, France |
| Profession | Professional Rugby Union Player |
| Husband/Wife | Information not publicly available. He has a long-term partner. |
| Family | He has a younger brother named Louis. His father’s name is Pierre Iturria. He has a son named Unaï. |
| Relationship/Affairs(GF/BF) | He is in a long-term relationship with his Bayonnaise partner. |
| Net Worth | Not publicly available |
Early Life and Education of Arthur Iturria
Arthur Iturria was born on May 13, 1994, in Pau, a city in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques department of southwestern France. Despite his birthplace, Iturria strongly identifies with his Basque roots, with his family heritage tracing back to the Basque Country villages of Ainhoa and Espelette. He began his rugby journey at the age of nine with the local club US Morlaàs, initially following in the footsteps of his friends and his younger brother, Louis, rather than harboring early ambitions of a professional career. In his youth, he also played football before fully committing to rugby. His formative years were spent developing his skills within a close-knit group of friends, an environment that nurtured his love for the game. At the age of 15, in 2009, he joined the youth setup of Aviron Bayonnais, a significant step that placed him in a more competitive setting. During this period, he also pursued vocational training, studying carpentry at the Lycée Technique Cantau in Anglet. This practical education provided him with a solid foundation outside of his burgeoning rugby career. His talent did not go unnoticed, and in 2012, at the age of 18, he made the pivotal decision to join the esteemed youth academy of ASM Clermont Auvergne. This move to one of France’s top rugby clubs marked the beginning of his transition from a promising young player to a professional athlete, setting the stage for his future successes in the Top 14 and on the international stage.
Arthur Iturria’s Career
Arthur Iturria’s professional rugby career has been a testament to his skill, perseverance, and leadership. After joining the ASM Clermont Auvergne academy in 2012, he honed his abilities and prepared for the rigors of top-flight rugby. He signed his first professional contract with Clermont in December 2014 and made his senior debut on August 22, 2015, against Stade Rochelais.
Rise at ASM Clermont Auvergne (2015-2023)
Iturria quickly established himself as a valuable member of the Clermont squad. His versatility, allowing him to play effectively as both a lock and a flanker, made him a key asset. The 2016-2017 season was a breakout year for him. He played a crucial role in Clermont’s triumphant Top 14 campaign, which culminated in them winning the prestigious Bouclier de Brennus. That same season, the club also reached the final of the European Rugby Champions Cup. Iturria’s impressive performances continued, and in the 2018-2019 season, he was instrumental in Clermont’s victory in the European Rugby Challenge Cup. During his time at Clermont, he developed into a leader, eventually earning the captain’s armband. His tenure with the club was marked by powerful carries, astute lineout work, and a relentless work ethic, making him a fan favorite and one of the most respected forwards in the league.
Return to Aviron Bayonnais (2023-Present)
In November 2022, it was announced that Iturria would be returning to his formative club, Aviron Bayonnais, for the 2023-2024 season on a four-year contract. This move was significant, representing a homecoming for the player who has deep personal and family ties to the Basque region. Upon his return, he was immediately entrusted with the captaincy, a clear indication of his leadership qualities and the high regard in which he is held at the club. His experience at the highest level of European rugby has been invaluable for Bayonne as they strive to establish themselves as a consistent force in the Top 14. In November 2025, it was announced that he had extended his contract with the club until June 2029, signaling his long-term commitment to the Basque side.
International Career with the XV de France
Iturria’s journey with the French national team began in the youth ranks, representing his country at the under-18 and under-20 levels. He was a part of the French U-20 team that won the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2014. He received his first call-up to the senior national squad in November 2016. His debut for Les Bleus came on February 4, 2017, against England in the Six Nations Championship. He has since earned 15 caps for France and was a member of the squad for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. His international career has seen him showcase his talents on the world’s biggest stage, contributing his power and versatility to the French pack.
Arthur Iturria Personal Life & Family
Arthur Iturria’s personal life is deeply rooted in his Basque heritage and close family ties. He is in a long-term relationship with his partner, who is from Bayonne, and together they have a son named Unaï, who was also born in Bayonne. The decision to return to Aviron Bayonnais was heavily influenced by his desire to be closer to family, with both his and his partner’s parents residing in the region. He has a younger brother, Louis, who also plays rugby. Iturria is known for his down-to-earth and family-oriented nature, often emphasizing the importance of his personal connections over the limelight of his professional career. He has a strong connection to the Basque Country, its culture, and its people, which is a significant part of his identity both on and off the field. Despite his success, he remains grounded and committed to the values instilled in him during his upbringing.
Awards and Achievements of Arthur Iturria
- Winner of the French Top 14 with ASM Clermont Auvergne (2017)
- Winner of the European Rugby Challenge Cup with ASM Clermont Auvergne (2019)
- Finalist of the European Rugby Champions Cup with ASM Clermont Auvergne (2017)
- Finalist of the French Top 14 with ASM Clermont Auvergne (2019)
- Winner of the Six Nations Under 20s Championship (Grand Slam) with France (2014)
- Voted into the best third row of the Top 14 season by Rugbyrama users (2018-2019)
- Winner of the French “Espoirs” Championship with ASM Clermont Auvergne (2014)
Arthur Iturria Net Worth and Income
The specific details of Arthur Iturria’s net worth and salary are not publicly disclosed. As a prominent player in the Top 14 and a French international, his income is primarily derived from his professional rugby contract with Aviron Bayonnais. Additional income sources likely include endorsements and sponsorships, although these are not extensively publicized. The financial terms of his contract extension with Aviron Bayonnais until 2029 have not been made public.
Legacy and Influence
Arthur Iturria’s legacy in French rugby is multifaceted. He is recognized for his exceptional talent and versatility as a forward, capable of excelling in multiple positions. His leadership has been a defining characteristic of his career, having captained a top club like ASM Clermont Auvergne and currently leading his hometown team, Aviron Bayonnais. His commitment to his Basque roots and his decision to return to Bayonne have further solidified his status as a local hero and an inspirational figure for aspiring rugby players in the region. Off the field, he is respected for his grounded personality and his emphasis on family and community. His public image is that of a dedicated professional and a role model who embodies the values of hard work, loyalty, and passion for the sport.
Interesting Facts about Arthur Iturria
- He initially started playing rugby to be with his friends and did not have early ambitions of becoming a professional player.
- Before committing to rugby full-time, he studied carpentry.
- He is of Basque descent and is deeply connected to his heritage.
- He played football before switching to rugby as a youth.
- He was part of the French U-20 team that achieved a Grand Slam in the 2014 Six Nations Championship.
Controversies
In 2018, during the Six Nations Championship, Arthur Iturria was involved in an off-field incident in Edinburgh following the match against Scotland. He and several other French players were questioned by police after a night out. While no charges were pressed, the incident resulted in him being disciplined by the French Rugby Federation and dropped for the subsequent match against Italy. This remains a rare and isolated incident in an otherwise professional and well-regarded career.
Social Media Presence
- Instagram – Not publicly available
- Twitter – Not publicly available
- YouTube – Not publicly available
Final Words about Arthur Iturria
Arthur Iturria continues to be a prominent figure in French rugby. As the captain of Aviron Bayonnais, he is at the forefront of the club’s ambitions in the Top 14 and European competitions. His long-term contract extension until 2029 underscores his commitment to his team and his desire to contribute to their future success. With his wealth of experience, leadership skills, and unwavering passion for the game, he is poised to leave a lasting impact on both his club and the broader French rugby landscape. His journey from a young boy playing for fun with his friends to a celebrated international and respected captain is a powerful narrative of dedication and the importance of staying true to one’s roots. The coming years will undoubtedly see him continue to inspire and lead, both on and off the pitch, further cementing his legacy in the sport.
