EPCR is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of ASM Clermont Auvergne president Eric de Cromières this morning at the age of 66.

The Frenchman was president at Clermont since 2013, guiding the club to two Heineken Champions Cup finals in 2015 and 2017, as well as Challenge Cup success in Newcastle last season.

Clermont also lifted the TOP 14 title in 2017 under De Cromières after a narrow 22-16 win over three-time European champions RC Toulon.

Some of rugby’s biggest names have paid tribute to De Cromières this morning - including the likes of French internationals Frédéric Michalak and Thierry Dusautoir, plus LNR president Paul Goze and Toulouse president Didier Lacroix– as well as many TOP 14 clubs.

EPCR extends a message of sincere condolence to Eric’s family and friends, and to all at ASM Clermont Auvergne.