Rugby: death at 59 of Didier Mené, former boss of French referees

2023-05-26 21:57:25

Sad news in French rugby. Former referee Didier Mené died of a heart attack at the age of 59, the French Rugby Federation announced on Friday. The one who was the boss of French referees from 2009 to 2016, had, during his career as a referee in the field, led in particular three finals of the French Championship and twelve international matches.

“Beyond his administrative career, Didier Mené was a recognized referee”, welcomed the FFR, which offered its condolences to the family of Didier Mené and his relatives. “Didier was a source of inspiration for a whole generation of referees. His contribution to French and international arbitration has been considerable. He has been a traveling companion for many and, tonight, the world of refereeing is saddened,” said Franck Maciello, national technical director of refereeing.

⚫️ It is with deep sadness that the FFR learns of the death of Didier Mené, former boss of referees and ex-member of the steering committee.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones at this difficult time.

▶️ pic.twitter.com/dcmrEOvdcq

— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) May 26, 2023

“Didier Mené has served our sport with passion and dedication. We invite all members of the FFR and the rugby community to honor his memory and his dedication to our sport,” added Alexandre Martinez, interim president of the FFR.

After having been one of the right arms of Pierre Camou, the former president of the FFR, Didier Mené, a Catalan from the Pyrénées-Orientales and professional engineerhad also committed alongside Oval Together, the federal opposition list.