Johan Hamel, a Ligue 1 veteran referee, passed away at the age of 42.
Hamel’s passing was confirmed by the French Referees’ Union in a statement posted on their website on Wednesday.
Hamel made his Champions League debut as the fourth official in Real Madrid’s victory over Celtic earlier this month. He had been officiating in the French top division for more than ten years.
On November 6, Lille and Rennes drew 1-1 in front of Hamel, one of France’s most well-liked officials.
He also served as the fourth official for PSG’s 5-0 victory over Auxerre on Sunday at Parc des Princes.
The major French football leagues’ governing body, the Ligue de Football Professionnel (LFP), also expressed its condolences.
Hamel passed away two years after Sebastien Desiage, a fellow French referee, died at the age of 46 after a battle with illness.
LFP reacts to Johan Hamel’s death
LFP president Vincent Labrune said: “Johan Hamel was an experienced referee who had worked for many seasons in Ligue 1 and Ligue 2. His sudden death is a terrible shock.
“Two years after the loss of Sebastien Desiage, his death again mourns French arbitration.
“In the name of all professional football, I send my condolences to Johan’s family and loved ones, as well as to SAFE and the FFF.”