November 16, (THEWILL) – Johan Hamel, a Ligue 1 referee, has passed away at the age of 42.
Hamel’s passing was confirmed by the French Referees’ Union, in a statement posted on their website on Wednesday. Hamel made his UEFA Champions League debut as the fourth official in Real Madrid’s victory over Celtic earlier this month. He had been officiating in the French top division for more than ten years.
Recently, on November 6, Lille and Rennes drew 1-1 with Hamel, one of France’s most well-liked match officials, in charge of the tie. He also served as the fourth official during PSG’s 5-0 victory over Auxerre on Sunday, at Parc des Princes.
The major French football leagues’ governing body, the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), also expressed its condolences.
Vincent Labrune, the LFP president said: “Johan Hamel was an experienced referee who had worked for many seasons in Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. His sudden death is a terrible shock. Two years after the loss of Sebastien Desiage, his death again mourns French arbitration.
“In the name of all professional football, I send my condolences to Johan’s family and loved ones, as well as to SAFE and the FFF.”
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
