Sad news within French rugby. Former referee Didier Mené has 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 on the field, directed three finals of the France 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 has been an inspiration to a whole generation of referees. His contribution to French and international arbitration has been considerable. He has been a 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 the referees and former member of the steering committee.
We extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones at this difficult time.
▶️ https://t.co/GaNz0TfTqg 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 honour his memory and dedication to our sport," added Alexandre Martinez, Acting President of the FFR.
After having been one of Pierre Camou's right-hand men, the former president of the FFR, Didier Mené, a Catalan native of the Pyrénées-Orientales and an engineer by profession, was also committed to Ovale Ensemble, the federal opposition list.