Serge Blanco

In 2022, Serge Blanco was excluded from the Biarritz Olympique association amid an acute governance dispute. He and his allies challenged the leadership and attempted to overturn or amend several decisions; civil courts subsequently issued adverse rulings on important aspects of this association dispute.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility

Serge Blanco's hotel and thalassotherapy companies experienced a serious financial crisis. His holding company SBLC was placed into compulsory liquidation in January 2020, with liabilities of more than 11 million euros reported by the press, while other assets underwent restructuring or were sold.

Following the disastrous 2014 tour of Australia and internal tensions, Serge Blanco, then FFR vice-president, became a form of super-manager of the French national rugby team. He acknowledged in 2016 that he had considered replacing Philippe Saint-André before respecting the FFR president's decision to retain him.

State of the evidence

Admitted by the person

Attribution

Direct responsibility

Blanco promoted a plan to merge the professional structures of Biarritz and Bayonne. The proposal triggered massive opposition from supporters and officials of the amateur sections. After Biarritz Olympique's board rejected the proposed agreement, Blanco resigned as club president.

State of the evidence

Documented

Attribution

Direct responsibility