In Auxerre, France, the renowned former president of the Auxerre soccer club, Gérard Bourgoin, has passed away at the age of 85, as announced by the team on Monday. He was a pivotal figure in establishing the club as a formidable force in both French and European football landscapes.
During his tenure as a major sponsor and vice-president, Auxerre, under the leadership of coach Guy Roux, achieved significant successes, including a memorable French league-Cup double victory in 1996. The following year, the team reached the quarterfinals of the prestigious Champions League, marking a high point in its history.
While the club did not disclose the cause of Bourgoin’s death, local reports suggested he encountered a health issue while driving back from a match at the Abbé-Deschamps, where Auxerre played against Strasbourg. In a heartfelt statement, the club expressed its deep sadness, describing Bourgoin as “an immense official who worked all his life to develop AJA and make it shine.”
Drawing on his background as a butcher, Bourgoin amassed considerable wealth by founding a successful poultry business, earning himself the nickname “King of Chicken.” His abilities extended beyond business acumen; he also enhanced the club by providing his private jet for player travel, a luxury that set a new standard for player conditions at the time.
In addition to his influence at Auxerre, Bourgoin held the position of president of the French league in 2000. He later assumed the role of Auxerre’s president in 2011 but stepped down two years later.
The club, in honoring his legacy, remarked, “We are losing a great man, a great leader and a great figure in the history of AJA.” His contribution to the club and French football has left a lasting impact.
