Ubisoft Co-Founder Claude Guillemot Killed in French Plane Crash

Claude Guillemot, 69, who co-founded video-game publisher Ubisoft with his brothers in 1986, died on Friday evening when the twin-engine Cessna 421 he was piloting crashed near the La Baule aerodrome in western France. French media reported that the aircraft, which had departed Rennes for a light-airplane gathering in La Baule, also killed the unnamed flight instructor.

Ubisoft issued a statement expressing condolences, saying the company learned of the accident with deep sadness and extending thoughts to his family and loved ones.

"Ubisoft learned with deep sadness of the death of Claude Guillemot, co-founder of the group and President of Guillemot Corporation, in an accident. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this ordeal," a Ubisoft representative said.

Guillemot had previously handed day-to-day control of Guillemot Corporation, a gaming-accessories and audio-technology firm founded in 1984, to his son Valentin in July 2025, while remaining chairman of the board. At Ubisoft, where his brother Yves serves as chief executive, Claude held the title of deputy chief executive officer but was not involved in daily management.

His death follows a career that saw Ubisoft grow from early titles such as Zombi and Iron Lord into a global developer of franchises including Assassin’s Creed, Rayman, Driver, Rabbids, Tom Clancy’s series and Watch Dogs. The Guillemot brothers also launched mobile-gaming company Gameloft in 2000.