A donation of 2,000 euros was rescinded from Louis Nicollin in April 2012 following a series of public outbursts that drew national attention. Beyond his controversial media profile, Nicollin acted as a central figure in French sports management and waste services for four decades, presiding over the Montpellier Hérault Sport Club from 1974 until his death in 2017.
Waste Management Expansion
Born in 1943 in Valence, Nicollin entered the family waste collection business as a young man. He took charge in 1977, transforming a regional operation into a national enterprise specializing in recycling, urban sanitation, and industrial cleaning. By the 2022-2023 period, the firm employed approximately 9,000 people and generated 550 million euros in annual revenue, supported by contracts across 300 municipalities.
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In 1974, Nicollin became president of the amateur Montpellier Paillade Sport Club. With backing from Mayor Georges Frêche, he guided the club to professional status. He became the sole shareholder in 1989, rebranding the organization as Montpellier Hérault Sport Club. The team achieved a Ligue 2 title in 1987, the Coupe de France in 1990, and the Ligue 1 championship in 2012.
Diversified Sports Investments
Nicollin expanded his reach into multiple sporting disciplines. He supported AS Béziers Hérault in rugby from 1999 to 2009 and later became a shareholder in the Montpellier Hérault Rugby Club. His holdings included Paris Basket Racing and Paris Handball. Additionally, he served as president of the Fédération Française de Joute et Sauvetage Nautique, a governing body for water jousting.
Public Controversies
His tenure was marked by frequent conflicts with the media and fellow officials. In 2009, he received a four-month ban from official duties after directing a homophobic slur at AJ Auxerre captain Benoit Pedretti. He faced similar criticism in 2012 for his disparaging remarks regarding rival coaches and executives, such as Adriano Galliani and Carlo Ancelotti.
Fast facts
- Born: 1943, Valence, France
- Died: 29 June 2017, Nîmes, France
- Professional Role: President, Montpellier Hérault Sport Club (1974-2017)
- Company: Groupe Nicollin
- Final resting place: Marsillargues cemetery
- Ligue 1 Title: 2012
- Jersey collection size: 4,500 pieces
Questions readers ask
Who succeeded Louis Nicollin as president of the football club?
His son, Laurent Nicollin, assumed the position of club president following Louis Nicollin's death.
What was the cause of Louis Nicollin's death?
He died of a heart attack on his 74th birthday, 29 June 2017.