Guy Laporte dead at 69: Former France rugby star and finalist of first ever World Cup dies suddenly as tributes pour in
FRANCE rugby legend Guy Laporte has passed away at the age of 69.
The former fly-half was part of the France squad that finished as runners-up at the first ever Rugby World Cup in 1987.
He sat out the final against eventual winners New Zealand but finished the tournament as his nation’s top-scorer.
Known for his skilful footwork, Laporte spent most of his career at SC Graulhet – where he was later made president.
Tributes have poured in for the man labelled ‘a great gentleman’ of French rugby.
French Rugby Federation president Bernard Laporte said: “The French rugby family has just lost a great gentleman in the person of Guy Laporte.
“Brilliant fly-half of the France XV and great president of the Graulhet club, Guy Laporte marked his time with his talent. All my condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Laporte made his international debut in the Five Nations victory over Ireland back in February 1981.
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That year he was part of the French Grand Slam-winning side who lifted their eighth outright title in the tournament.
He went on to become France’s topscorer at the 1987 World Cup, racking up 42 points in the inaugural competition.
Overall he won only 16 caps for his country but touched down for three tries and scored a whopping 143 points overall.
In later life he went on to become a vice-president of the French Rugby Federation and head coach of Castres, as well as president of Graulhet.