Eric Roy, the influential manager responsible for the historic rise of Stade Brestois 29, passed away at the age of 58 on June 17, 2026. His death came after a prolonged battle with pancreatic cancer, which he fought for approximately three and a half years.
Under Roy’s leadership, Stade Brestois made a remarkable journey from being perceived as Ligue 1 underdogs to becoming participants in the prestigious UEFA Champions League, a first for the club. From the moment he took the helm on January 3, 2023, he instilled a winning culture and a strong team spirit. During the 2023-24 season, Roy’s strategic management led the team to a commendable third-place finish in Ligue 1, securing a spot in the 2024-25 UEFA Champions League. His exceptional performance earned him the title of French Manager of the Year for that season.
Over his tenure, Roy recorded a total of 60 wins, 33 draws, and 49 losses across 142 matches, showcasing his ability to navigate the competitive landscape of professional football. Before transitioning to management, Roy had an illustrious playing career, marking over 400 appearances with clubs like Nice, Lyon, and Marseille, in addition to a period at Sunderland in the English Premier League.
The significance of Roy's battle with illness cannot be overstated. He continued to produce extraordinary results on the pitch during the same period he was confronting a serious health challenge, proving both his dedication to the sport and his resilience in the face of adversity.