Bernard Tapie legacy honored five years after death

Five years after his death, the legacy of former Olympique de Marseille (OM) president Bernard Tapie continues to be honored in Marseille. The club recently paid tribute to him on its official website, recalling the profound impact he had on the city and the club during his leadership.

Tapie, who took charge of OM in 1986, led the club to significant success, including four consecutive French championship titles between 1989 and 1992 and the 1993 UEFA Champions League title, which remains the only European trophy won by a French club. To commemorate his influence, a statue was inaugurated on May 16, 2025, in front of the Vélodrome stadium on an esplanade named in his honor.

Former OM star Jean-Pierre Papin also shared a personal tribute, describing a deep bond with Tapie. Speaking on the program ‘C à Vous’, Papin recalled how Tapie supported him both professionally, such as facilitating his transfer to OM, and personally during difficult life periods.