Full Breakdown
Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Killed in French Plane Crash
6/20/2026, 10:12:19 PM
Fatal Crash of Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot
On Friday, June 19 2026, Claude Guillemot, 69, co-founder of Ubisoft, died when a Cessna 421 twin-engine aircraft crashed near the La Baule-Escoublac aerodrome in Loire-Atlantique. The plane was on its landing approach, turned, and impacted a field, igniting a fire. Both occupants were killed. The crash prompted an emergency response and a formal investigation by French aviation authorities.
Ubisoft Founding and Guillemot’s Role
Ubisoft was founded on 28 March 1986 in Brittany by Claude Guillemot and his brothers Yves, Michel, Christian and Gérard. Claude served as vice-president, sat on the board, and chaired Guillemot Corporation, which makes Thrustmaster and Hercules accessories. He remained a shareholder and backbone until handing the CEO role to his son Valentin in 2025.
Recent Timeline
June 10 2026 – Ubisoft announced closure of two studios and up to 380 layoffs.
June 19 2026 – Guillemot’s fatal crash.
June 20 2026 – Ubisoft issued a statement.
July 9 2026 – Release of “Black Flag Resynced.”
Crash Details
The Cessna 421, an eight-seat twin-engine plane, left Rennes for La Baule to attend an airshow. Witnesses saw it turn before impact. Over 60 firefighters, about 30 emergency vehicles, paramedics and gendarmerie responded; the fire consumed the aircraft and ~500 m² of vegetation. Flags flew at half-mast.
Official Statements
Ubisoft issued a statement expressing deep sadness, extending thoughts to Guillemot’s family, and stating no further comments would be made. Mayor Franck Louvrier confirmed the aircraft type, described the turn and crash, and noted the emergency response.
Conflicting Reports
Sources differ on the second occupant’s identity—some say a flight instructor, others say the aircraft’s owner/operator, unnamed. All agree both occupants died, but Guillemot’s exact role (pilot or passenger) varies; cause remains undetermined.
Impact on Ubisoft
Guillemot’s death removes a key operational leader and may affect governance of Guillemot Corp., Ubisoft’s controlling shareholder. Ubisoft proceeds with the July 9 launch of “Black Flag Resynced” amid recent studio closures, potentially influencing investor sentiment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It was a Cessna 421, a twin-engine propeller, with eight seats,” — Franck Louvrier, Mayor of La Baule
- “The plane was on approach for the landing phase, when, according to witnesses, it made a turn and crashed.” — Franck Louvrier, Mayor of La Baule
- “Ubisoft was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Claude Guillemot, co-founder of the group and chairman of Guillemot Corp., in an accident,” — Ubisoft statement
- “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.” — Ubisoft statement
Outlook
French aviation authorities will investigate flight conditions, aircraft maintenance and pilot actions. Ubisoft may update shareholders after the inquiry. Succession at Guillemot Corp. is in place under Valentin Guillemot, and the July 9 launch proceeds.
