Jean-Pierre Escalettes was long removed from the world of football, residing in Andernos and only appearing in the region at the edge of fields or for celebrations. He passed away on Tuesday at the age of 90. Despite the Knysna incident, his over 60 years of service to the sport, including 42 years in leadership roles, will not be forgotten.
As president of the French Football Federation, elected in 2005 during a crisis following the failures of the 2002 World Cup and the 2004 Euros, he will be remembered for helping to stabilize the finances alongside his vice-president, Noël Le Graët.
Euro 2016 and Grassroots Leagues In addition to securing Euro 2016 and establishing the “House of Football” in Paris, he will be remembered for his commitment to grassroots football, strengthening leagues, implementing the Fafa (Amateur Football Aid Fund), and advocating for a status for volunteer leaders. His passion for grassroots football was evident from his early days as a player in Bordeaux to his role as a leader in the Dordogne club.
Fernand Sastre, former president of the FFF, guided him towards leadership roles in the Aquitaine League and the Federal Council. Escalettes later founded and led the Amateur Football League for 10 years (1995-2005).
