Eric Roy, coach of the Brest football club, died on June 17, 2026, at age 58 after battling pancreatic cancer for three and a half years, a battle he kept private during that time [1] [2]. Roy was appointed as Brest coach in January 2023, returning to management after a decade away from the role [1] [2].
Under his leadership, Brest achieved a surprising third-place finish in Ligue 1 during the 2023-24 season. This marked the club’s first-ever qualification for European competition, a historic milestone for the team [1] [2]. Roy’s efforts earned him the Ligue 1 Manager of the Season award for 2023-24 [1] [2].
Before coaching, Roy had a lengthy playing career primarily in the 1990s as a defensive midfielder. He made over 300 appearances across French clubs including Nice, Lyon, and Marseille, along with a stint in the English Premier League with Sunderland [1] [2].
Beyond coaching, Roy held roles as management and sporting director at clubs like Nice, Lens, and Watford before returning to coach Brest in 2023 [1] [2].
Roy’s family released a statement reflecting on his connection with the club and players: "His time at Stade Brestois was one of the most beautiful periods of his life. It gave him energy, joy and a reason to keep going, even through the most difficult moments. With his players, he built a rare and wonderful bond. He loved them deeply, and he was proud, profoundly proud, to be their coach" [1].