Carlo Molinari, Historic FC Metz President, Dies at 93

Carlo Molinari, the historic and long-serving president of FC Metz who guided the French professional football club for over thirty years, passed away Wednesday at the age of 93. His death marks the loss of a foundational figure in French football history, leaving the club and its supporters in deep mourning.

Molinari first assumed the presidency in 1967 and, aside from a brief hiatus between 1978 and 1983, remained at the helm until 2009. During his decades of leadership, FC Metz experienced some of the most memorable chapters in its history, capturing two Coupe de France titles in 1984 and 1988, alongside two Coupe de la Ligue victories in 1986 and 1996.

Among the defining highlights of his tenure was a legendary European campaign in 1984, highlighted by an astonishing 4-1 victory against FC Barcelona at Camp Nou. Powered by exceptional talent generation, including future 1998 World Cup champion Robert Pires alongside players like Patrick Battiston and Sylvain Kastendeuch, the club also came remarkably close to capturing the French top-flight championship during the 1997-1998 season. Finishing level at the top, Metz ultimately missed out on the title to RC Lens only on goal difference.

Following the announcement of his passing, tributes poured in from across the French football community. Michel Platini, sharing roots in the same region, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his close friend. "It is a monument in my life. It is difficult to translate into words what united us. He was close to me, I was close to him," Platini stated, recalling that Molinari represented his entire history and love for the game.

Bernard Serin, who succeeded Molinari as club president in 2009, emphasized the profound impact his predecessor left on the institution and the wider community. "The disappearance of Carlo Molinari is immense sadness for FC Metz and for the entire maroon family. It is a major figure in the club's history who is leaving us, a man whose name will remain inseparable from the identity and journey of FC Metz," Serin remarked in a club statement, praising his unwavering commitment and deeply human personality.

Vincent Labrune, president of the Professional Football League, noted that Molinari embodied FC Metz with a loyalty, passion, and distinct personality that resonated far beyond the Lorraine region. Former players and colleagues echoed similar sentiments, remembering him as a benevolent patriarch, a passionate leader, and a dedicated businessman who started his journey as a motocross rider before shaping French football history.

Even after stepping down from official duties in 2009, Molinari maintained a constant presence, closely following the team he deeply loved. His enduring legacy remains woven into the fabric of FC Metz, anchored by the values, triumphs, and profound sense of community he championed throughout his life.