Claude Guillemot, one of the founding members of the video game company Ubisoft, known for developing the popular Assassin’s Creed series, has tragically passed away in an aviation accident in France.
Reports from French news outlets indicate that Guillemot lost his life on Friday evening after the Cessna 421 twin-engine aircraft he was flying crashed near the La Baule aerodrome, located in a coastal resort in Western France where he owned a holiday residence. The crash also claimed the life of his flying instructor.
Ubisoft expressed its condolences in an official statement, saying, “It is with profound sorrow that Ubisoft has learned of the passing of Claude Guillemot, a co-founder and President of Guillemot Corporation, in a tragic accident. Our hearts go out to his family and all who are mourning his loss.”
The accomplished entrepreneur, along with his unidentified flying instructor, had departed from Rennes on Friday afternoon, heading to La Baule to participate in the Fly In La Baule event, which attracts light airplane aficionados.
At the age of 69, Claude Guillemot had helped to establish the renowned gaming company Ubisoft in 1986 with his brothers Michel, Yves, Gérard, and Christian in Carentoir, Brittany, their place of birth.
Starting with initial titles like Zombi and Iron Lord, the company eventually became a major force in the gaming industry, producing acclaimed games such as Assassin’s Creed, Rayman, Driver, Rabbids, Tom Clancy’s series, and Watch Dogs.
Claude was also instrumental in the creation of Guillemot Corporation, formed in 1984, which focuses on gaming accessories and digital audio technologies, prior to the establishment of Ubisoft.
In 2000, the Guillemot brothers launched Gameloft, which emerged as a key player in the mobile gaming industry, specializing in games for smartphones.
In July 2025, Claude Guillemot transitioned the operational leadership of Guillemot Corporation to his son, Valentin Guillemot, appointing him as CEO. However, Claude continued to play a strategic role as the Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Meanwhile, at Ubisoft, led by his brother Yves Guillemot, Claude served as Deputy Chief Executive Officer on the board. He was not involved in the daily management but remained a key figure in the company’s broader strategic decisions.
The unfortunate demise of Claude Guillemot occurs as Ubisoft prepares for the anticipated release of Black Flag Resynced on July 9, a major release intended to revitalize the company amidst a challenging financial period and declining game popularity.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
His sharp analysis and investigative reports make complex financial topics accessible to all readers.
