French gymnast Eric Poujade, a silver medalist at the 2000 Sydney Olympics on the pommel horse, has passed away at the age of 51. The news was announced by the French Gymnastics Federation on Wednesday. Poujade’s achievements extend beyond his Olympic success. He secured silver on the pommel at the 1994 and 1997 world championships and earned gold medals in both the pommel horse and team competition at the 1998 European championships in St Petersburg.
The federation paid tribute to Poujade’s legacy, stating that he had “left his mark on the history of the discipline.” While the cause of death was not disclosed, federation president James Blateau expressed the profound loss felt by the gymnastics community, saying, “The world of gymnastics today loses a great champion and an elegant servant.”
Poujade’s silver medal in Sydney ended a 16-year drought for French gymnasts at the Olympics. The last French gymnast to win an Olympic medal before Poujade was Philippe Vatuone, who claimed bronze in the floor discipline at the 1984 Los Angeles Games.
Poujade’s passing marks the end of an era for French gymnastics. His dedication, skill, and sportsmanship have inspired generations of athletes, and his legacy will continue to be celebrated within the sport for years to come.
