Denis Lathoud: Handball Icon & Former Strasbourg Coach Dies at 59

Denis Lathoud, former world handball champion, passed away at 59 after battling cancer.A look at his legacy and impact on French handball.”>

{ "@context":"https://schema.org", "@type":"NewsArticle", "mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"CANONICALURL"}, "headline":"Denis Lathoud, Handball Champion, Dies at 59", "description":"Denis Lathoud, former world handball champion, passed away at 59 after battling cancer. A look at his legacy and impact on French handball.", "datePublished":"2025-06-22 21:41:00", "dateModified":"2025-06-22 21:41:00", "author":{"@type":"Person","name":"DISPLAYEDAUTHORFROMCMS"}, "publisher":{"@type":"Institution","name":"time.news","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://time.news/logo.png"}} }
PARIS, June 22, 2025

A Handball Legend Passes 
His contributions to French handball will not be forgotten.

Denis Lathoud, former world champion, dies at 59.

• denis Lathoud,a celebrated figure in French handball,has died at age 59.
• Lathoud was a key player for the “Barjots,” the French men’s handball team.
• He coached ESSAHB Strasbourg between 2019 and 2022.

The world of handball is mourning. What happened to Denis Lathoud? Denis lathoud, the former world handball champion and Strasbourg coach, died at the age of 59 from cancer, leaving a void in the sport and in the hearts of those who knew him.

A Champion’s Legacy

Lathoud, a cornerstone of the French men’s handball team known as the “Barjots,” passed away between Saturday and Sunday, according to Philippe Bana, president of the French Handball Federation. Bana shared his condolences on X, writing, “Denis Lathoud is gone. The rock leaves us. Rest in peace brother.All of handball sends its condolences to the family. All in mourning.”

did you know? Lathoud earned 164 selections to the French national team during his career.

Those close to Lathoud confirmed he had been battling cancer.

The “Barjots”: The French national handball team of the 1990s, known for their unconventional style and success, captivated the nation. Thay won the bronze medal at the 1992 Barcelona olympics and the gold medal at the 1995 World Championship.

From Player to Coach

Lathoud’s impact extended beyond his playing days. He transitioned into coaching, leading teams in Dijon, Tunis, and Strasbourg. Notably, he coached ESSAHB between 2019 and 2022, when the team was in the second division.

A World Champion

A champion in 1995, Lathoud left an undeniable mark on French handball.

The “Barjots” Era: A Golden Age for French handball

The “Barjots,” the nickname for the French men’s handball team in the 1990s, didn’t just win; they revolutionized the sport. With players like Denis Lathoud at their core, this team ushered in a new era of exciting, unorthodox play. The era remains a celebrated period in French sporting history.

The team’s success wasn’t just about winning medals; it was about captivating a nation. Their thrilling style,a mix of athleticism,tactical innovation,and a healthy dose of flair,made them a beloved team and the gold standard of handball. They inspired millions of fans.

The “Barjots” era represented more than just sports success, it symbolized a cultural shift.

The 1992 Barcelona Olympics marked their breakthrough. They won their first major tournament medal, a bronze, earning them a special place in the heart of the public, which built excitement for the World Championship in 1995.

The 1995 World Championship held particular importance. This victory, with Lathoud playing a crucial role, was a game-changer, cementing the team’s place in handball history.The gold medal win in Iceland not only proved their dominance but also sparked a nationwide celebration.

Their success story goes beyond the trophies. The “Barjots” fostered a new generation of handball players in France.

What Made the “Barjots” So Special?

Several factors fueled the “Barjots’s” success. Their innovative tactics, athletic prowess, and a special sense of unity all contributed to their captivating performances.

• Innovative Tactics: They mixed up their plays and surprised opponents.
• Exceptional Athleticism: The team was known for speed, agility, and strength.
• Team Unity: A close-knit team spirit helped them to perform at their best.

Lathoud’s leadership on and off the court was pivotal to the atmosphere of the “Barjots”. His commitment, skill, and teamwork made him an essential player.

Their success also influenced future players, leaving behind a lasting legacy. The “Barjots” helped develop the handball sport in France and set high goals for the future generations.