Euro 1984 Winner And French Soccer Icon Bernard Lacombe, Dies At 72, Leaving Behind His Wife Mireille, And Two Sons

A titan of French soccer, Bernard Lacombe, passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the age of 72 after a prolonged hospitalization.

This marks the end of an era for Olympique Lyonnais, a club that Lacombe served in nearly every capacity imaginable for decades.

His wife, Mireille, and sons Arnaud and Sébastien, released a heartfelt statement:

Bernard Lacombe Dedicated His Life To Olympique Lyonnais

A native of Villefranche-sur-Saône, Lacombe embodied the very spirit of Lyon soccer.

From his early days as a striker to later becoming an assistant coach, technical director, sporting director, and scout, Lacombe wore every hat imaginable at OL.

With a loyalty rarely seen in modern soccer, Lacombe served OL through thick and thin.

His 37-year professional relationship with Aulas became the bedrock of Lyon’s transformation into a major European club.

Before his executive legacy, Lacombe was a prolific striker.

With 255 goals in 497 top-flight appearances, Bernard Lacombe ranks as the second-highest goal scorer in Ligue 1 history, just behind Delio Onnis.

He was known not only for his goal-scoring ability but also for his intelligence and commitment to the club and game.

A quiet yet decisive presence, Lacombe’s influence extended across generations.

Friends And Well-Wishers Pay Emotional Tribute

Bernard Lacombe’s closest ally for nearly four decades, Jean-Michel Aulas, paid his tribute.

Speaking to RMC, Aulas shared the depth of his grief:

Aulas recalled their first meeting in 1987, when Claude Bez, then-president of Bordeaux, advised him to bring Lacombe to Lyon.

From that moment, they built something special, not just a soccer club, but a family.

A few hours later, Aulas posted a touching message on X:

As the OL family and soccer community mourn, they also celebrate the extraordinary life of a man who gave everything to the game.

Rest in peace, Bernard Lacombe!