Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Dies in Plane Crash at 69

The global gaming industry is mourning the loss of Claude Guillemot, the co-founder of Ubisoft, who died in a plane crash in western France at the age of 69.

According to reports, the accident occurred near La Baule on France’s Atlantic coast when a twin-engine Cessna 421 aircraft carrying Guillemot and a flight instructor crashed while approaching the airport. Both occupants of the aircraft were killed in the incident. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.

Claude Guillemot was one of the five Guillemot brothers who founded Ubisoft in 1986. The company grew from a small software distribution business into one of the world’s leading video game publishers, producing globally successful franchises such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rayman, and Just Dance.

While his brother Yves Guillemot became the public face of the company, Claude played a significant role behind the scenes and was also closely involved with the family’s hardware business, Guillemot Corporation. His contributions helped shape Ubisoft into a major force in the gaming industry.

In a statement, Ubisoft expressed deep sorrow over his passing and extended condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones. The company has not provided additional details beyond confirming his death.

The news has prompted tributes from gamers, developers, and industry figures worldwide, many recognizing Claude Guillemot’s role in building one of the most influential video game companies of the modern era.

As investigations into the crash continue, the gaming community remembers a businessman whose vision helped create some of the most iconic gaming franchises enjoyed by millions around the world.