Le Lay : “Rennes? It’s MY Club”

« I don’t remember that many journalists coming for me in the past. It feels like my new functions with the Stade Rennais are more important than what I did in TF1 for twenty years», smiles Patrick Le Lay when face with the crowd of journalists present to record his appointment as director of the Stade Rennais. This Friday, the first French television channel’s former director was officially given the reins of the club. After three and a half years on the job, Frédéric de Saint-Sernin wished to « take a step back ». About ten days ago, the former député had informed Francois Pinault of his heart condition. To replace him, the main shareholder immediately thought of his friend Patrick Le Lay, who accepted the challenge immediately and unflinchingly: « When François Pinault asks you something, you can’t refuse. » Especially since the 68 years old businessman has strong links with Brittany and its capital: «Please be aware that the Stade Rennais is MY team. From age six to twenty, I’ve always attended games Route de Lorient. Every Saturday, I need to know the team’s result. »

"I have to adapt"

In front of the press, the Breton, relaxed and jokey, forestalls the questions: « You will tell me, that I have no experience in football. My answer is ready. When I arrived in TF1, in 1987, I had no experience in television… The Stade Rennais has got a structure, a very well oiled organisation. » The new president has already confirmed Pierre Dréossi and Frederic Antonetti in their position. « My new co-workers don’t have to adapt to me, I need to adapt to them. »

What « touch » does he plan to add to his management? He affirms his will strive to « research the excellence ». Frédéric de Saint-Sernin is quick to answer instead of the new president: « Patrick Le Lay is the right choice for the club. He is a personal friend of Monsieur Pinault, and they share a very deep Breton root. Under his management, the club will keep on progressing. » Where Frédéric de Saint-Sernin was a strong reinforcement through his political contacts, the new president will be able to facilitate many transactions, thanks to his very large industrial address book.

Reassure the Fans

The appointment of TF1’s former boss is unanimously welcomed in the club. As for the fans, many are nervous about his arrival. The Saint-Brieuc man’s popularity, indeed, is dented by some shock quotes relayed by the French media and his puppet in the Guignols de l’Info (i.e.: A popular French politico-satirical puppet show). «The competition’s journalist greatest pleasure was to slam me as much as possible. Many things were said, that were perfectly untrue. The best way to seduce? It will happen through good results on the pitch. » His co-workers are told: M. Le Lay is a perfectionist, and he won’t settle on a work half-done.

Benjamin Keltz - Le Mensuel de Rennes

Crédit photo : www.lemensuelderennes.fr