He had a distinguished career with Section Paloise and Racing Club de France, and represented the French national team from 1975 to 1983.

Considered one of the world's top props during the 1970s, he later served in key roles in French rugby, including vice president of the FFR.

After 17 years at Section Paloise, Robert Paparemborde joined Racing Club de France, where he was offered a role in public relations with Banania.

Although Racing's matches were often in modest stadiums, Paparemborde played a key part in their promotion back to Groupe A for his final season.

Despite never playing at the Stade du Hameau for Section Paloise, there was a proposal to rename it after him when François Bayrou became mayor of Pau in 2014, as part of the renovation project.