Éric Roy honoured by France squad with minute’s silence at 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

The France squad paid tribute to Éric Roy on Wednesday at the 2026 World Cup, following the announcement that the Brest coach had died aged 58. The news saddened the football world and beyond.

Roy died after a three-year battle with pancreatic cancer, and the squad learned of the tragedy across the Atlantic. Didier Deschamps said French football had lost a highly competent coach and a much admired character.

He noted that Roy’s work with Stade Brestois, including Champions League qualification, underlined a deep knowledge of the game and players. He recalled presenting him with the UNFP Ligue 1 coach of the year award two years ago.

Roy had kept his illness private. Deschamps praised his determination in the fight, spoke of his profound humanity, and offered condolences to his wife, children and all who loved him.

The day after their 3-1 win over Senegal in their World Cup opener, captain Kylian Mbappé and his team-mates observed a minute’s silence in Roy’s memory before beginning their scheduled session.

Source: Le Progres