Benoit Costil: From Goalkeeper to Oyster Farmer
Benoit Costil, the 38-year-old former France international goalkeeper, has embarked on a remarkable new chapter in his life. After a successful career playing for clubs like Stade Rennais and Bordeaux in Ligue 1, and earning a cap for the French national team, Costil has traded the football pitch for a secluded oyster farm. This transition is a testament to his versatility and his desire to live a life true to his values.
A Career of Distinction
Costil’s football career was marked by notable achievements and a consistent presence in top-tier French football. He started his professional journey at Laval and later moved to Stade Rennais, where he established himself as one of the league’s top goalkeepers. His performances caught the attention of the national team, and he earned his single cap for France in a 0-0 draw against Ivory Coast in November 2016. Costil was also part of the French squad that reached the final of Euro 2016, albeit as a member of the bench.
A New Lease on Life
In 2024, Costil surprised everyone by announcing he would not retire after his contract with Salernitina expired. Instead, he decided to take on a completely different challenge. He restored an oyster farm in the Gulf of Morbihan, a project that had been dormant for two decades. Costil, known for his down-to-earth personality, has always eschewed the lavish lifestyles often associated with professional athletes. This new venture aligns perfectly with his values, allowing him to connect deeply with nature and engage in hard, honest work.
Embracing the Sea and Community
Life on the oyster farm has brought Costil a new kind of satisfaction. He works alongside his friend, Philippe Le Pelvé, and the pair can often be seen filling crates on their boat or stacking up mesh bags. Costil has taken on various roles, from farming and sales to serving customers at the farm’s bar. “I just need to learn to shuck oysters faster!” he quips. This new venture has also allowed him to maintain connections with his football days, welcoming former teammates and friends like Yoann Gourcuff, Laurent Koscielny, and Christophe Jallet to enjoy the fruits of his labor.
A New Position on a New Team
Even as he embraces his new role as an oyster farmer, Costil hasn’t completely abandoned his sporting roots. He now plays for the Carnac veterans’ team in the Gulf of Morbihan, but with a twist: he has switched positions from goalkeeper to wing-back. This change reflects his more relaxed approach to the game, focusing on the social and recreational aspects rather than the competitive edge he once thrived on. “I’ve lost my competitive edge,” he jokes, adding that he has “become more Breton than the Bretons themselves.”
A Life Well-Lived
Benoit Costil’s transition from professional football to oyster farming is a story of personal fulfillment and authenticity. He has found a way to live a life that resonates with his true self, connecting with the natural beauty of his surroundings and the simplicity of hard work. His journey is a reminder that success is not just about achieving professional milestones but also about finding joy and purpose in the paths less traveled. As Costil continues to thrive in his new role, he serves as an inspiration to many, showing that it’s never too late to pursue a life that feels right.
