Ubisoft cofounder reportedly dead in plane crash in France

Claude Guillemot, 69, cofounder of Ubisoft, one of the world's largest video game developers, has died in a plane crash in France, the French daily Ouest-France reported, citing a source (confirmed by a source who spoke to another daily, Le Figaro).

The twin-engine Cessna 421 business aircraft, which Guillemot was piloting, according to Le Figaro, crashed on Friday evening while approaching La Baule airfield near the city of Nantes. Both people on board were killed, the other occupant being a flight instructor, Ouest-France reported.

Ubisoft was founded in 1986 by the five Guillemot brothers. Claude served on the board and was also responsible for operations as executive vice president.

The company publishes popular franchises including "Assassin's Creed," "Far Cry," "Tom Clancy's," and "Just Dance." During the pandemic, Ubisoft benefited from lockdowns and other restrictions that boosted player engagement. More recently, however, the company has struggled with sales in an increasingly competitive market. One reason was the delay of "Assassin's Creed Shadows" following weaker-than-expected demand for "Star Wars Outlaws," which has led Ubisoft to lower its profit forecast.

In January, Ubisoft announced a large-scale reorganization, saying it would discontinue development of several games, close two divisions, and record a EUR1 billion loss in fiscal 2026. On that day, the stock lost a third of its value, plunging to a record low. In May, Ubisoft said its return to profitability and positive free cash flow would be delayed by one year.

Year to date through Friday's close, Ubisoft shares have fallen 18%. However, the stock is up 37% over the last three months.