Hugo Biolley, elected mayor of Vinzieux at 18 in 2020, announces his bid for a second term in the March 15 and 22, 2026 municipal elections. At 24, he has managed the 556-inhabitant commune in Ardèche while studying at Sciences Po Grenoble. He is also job hunting.
In January, over a hundred residents of Vinzieux, a small Ardèche commune of 556 inhabitants nestled on the foothills of the Pilat massif, gathered at the town hall's community hall. The event featured hot wine and pizzas in a convivial atmosphere focused on their mayor, Hugo Biolley, known as France's youngest.
Elected in 2020 after his predecessor's resignation, Biolley was the only candidate at 18. Amid the Covid-19 crisis, he directed his mandate toward creating activity and life in the village, warning: 'Otherwise, we become a dormitory village.' He took on various roles, from team leader to diplomat, common for rural mayors.
While balancing studies at Sciences Po Grenoble, he now presents the balance of his six-year term and seeks re-election in the March 2026 vote. This choice raises questions about the feasibility of such a position for a young adult, but his local commitment continues amid his job search.
