Ubisoft Co-Founder Killed in Air Accident
Claude Guillemot, one of the founders of global video game company Ubisoft, died in a plane crash in western France on Friday. He was 69. The accident involved a twin-engine Cessna 421 aircraft that went down near La Baule-Escoublac Airport on the Atlantic coast.
Another person on board, an experienced flight instructor, also lost his life. Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash.
Key Figure Behind Ubisoft’s Rise
Claude Guillemot helped establish Ubisoft in 1986 alongside his four brothers. The company later became one of the world’s leading video game publishers, creating successful franchises such as Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Rainbow Six, Rayman, and Just Dance.
Although his brother Yves Guillemot became the public face and long-time CEO of Ubisoft, Claude played an important role behind the scenes in building and expanding the family’s gaming and entertainment businesses.
Ubisoft Pays Tribute to Its Co-Founder
Ubisoft confirmed the death of Claude Guillemot and expressed sadness over the loss. The company extended condolences to his family and loved ones and said no additional comments would be made at this time.
Following his work with Ubisoft, Claude Guillemot served as chairman of Guillemot Corporation, the family’s hardware business. His contributions helped transform Ubisoft from a small software distributor into a major player in the global gaming industry.
