Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Dies in Plane Crash in France
Claude Guillemot, one of the co-founders of video game publisher Ubisoft, has died following a plane crash in western France. He was 69 years old.
According to reports from French media, the incident occurred on June 19 when a small aircraft crashed near La Baule, a coastal town in western France. Guillemot was reportedly on board the aircraft alongside a flight instructor when the crash happened.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene, but both occupants of the aircraft were confirmed dead. Authorities said the plane caught fire following the impact, which complicated identification efforts and delayed official confirmation of the victims.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation, and officials have yet to release detailed findings regarding the cause of the accident.
Claude Guillemot was one of five brothers who founded Ubisoft in 1986, helping transform the company from a small French gaming business into one of the world’s largest video game publishers. Alongside his brothers Christian, Gérard, Michel and Yves Guillemot, he played a significant role in shaping the company’s growth and international expansion.
Throughout his career, Claude Guillemot held several leadership positions within Ubisoft and served on the company’s board. He was particularly involved in operational management and was known for his extensive knowledge of gaming technology, hardware and international markets.
Ubisoft has grown into a major force in the gaming industry, producing globally recognised franchises such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, The Division and Prince of Persia.
Within company records, Claude Guillemot was credited with bringing entrepreneurial insight and international business experience to the organisation, particularly through his involvement in expanding Ubisoft’s presence across global markets.
News of his death has sparked an outpouring of condolences from members of the gaming industry, colleagues and fans who recognised his contributions to the development of modern video gaming.
As investigations into the crash continue, tributes are expected to honour the legacy of one of the figures who helped build Ubisoft into a global entertainment powerhouse over nearly four decades.
