The supporters of Stade Rennes, 3e in Ligue 1, have probably never been so fulfilled: two successive European campaigns, a trophy – the Coupe de France 2019 -, after forty-eight years of lean cows, and a world champion – Steven Nzonzi – soon on the lawn. Then, Stade Rennes, true to its reputation as an unstable club, dismissed its president. More specifically: the Pinault family, owner, has dismissed Olivier Létang, head of the Rouge et Noir for just over two years.
"The sports window is certainly flamboyant, but the back of the decor is quite different. Olivier Létang contributed to the success of the team but also caused great confusion behind the scenes, explains someone close to the Breton club. The president has too often believed that Stade Rennes was his club. " This is what François-Henri Pinault criticized him on Thursday, February 6, before landing him, to everyone's surprise – starting with that of the interested party.
Although not very present in Brittany, the shareholders closely follow the development of the most specific of the family's businesses. François, the father, and François-Henri, the son, have always claimed a passionate bond with the Stade Rennes. By acquiring the club in 1998, the Pinault family promised to develop it for "Give back to Brittany what it does (their) gave ".
Rough style
François-Henri, who, as a child, officiated as a ball collector of the Rouge et Noir, has hammered for years the need to "Bring the club and its public together". Olivier Létang has strayed too far from the specifications, according to the owners – even if Roazhon Park shouted his name during the tasteless draw against Brest (0-0) on Saturday evening.
However, the Pinaults thought they had found the ideal profile in November 2017. Barely in place, Olivier Létang imposed his " requirement " and his " Attention to detail " for " perform ". A word he hammered at his teams by insisting on each of his syllables. An overweight central defender on arrival? Deprived of competition until further notice. Are the beige walls of the training center bothering him? Thank you for repainting them in club colors with a slew of conquering words. Does a manager not follow his instructions? Summoned right now for a blower.
His friends often advised him to polish his rough style to reveal the jovial man he can be when he starts karaoke. "With Olivier, either you get in the boat and you give everything, or you get down bluntly", explains an employee. In a few months, the Breton SME has accused the departure of many managers.
