Gérard Bourgoin, Influential AJ Auxerre Leader, Dies at 85

The former football executive and mayor passed away following a health incident after attending a match in Auxerre.

Gérard Bourgoin, a pivotal figure in French football and AJ Auxerre's history, died at 85 after suffering a health episode while driving home from a match.
Bourgoin served as AJ Auxerre's vice-president from 1978 to 2000, contributing to the club's ascent to Ligue 1 and its 1996 championship victory.
Known as the 'roi du poulet' for his success in the poultry industry, Bourgoin also held leadership roles in the Ligue Nationale de Football and local politics.
He returned as AJ Auxerre's president in 2011 but faced challenges, including the club's relegation to Ligue 2 in 2012, before stepping down in 2013.
Tributes from football figures and the club highlight his passion, generosity, and lasting impact on French football and the Auxerre community.