Zinedine Zidane Pays Tribute to Legendary Commentator Thierry Gilardi
PARIS, 28 February 2026 – French football icon Zinedine Zidane has offered a poignant reflection on the career of the late Thierry Gilardi, praising the commentator’s professional integrity during one of the most controversial moments in sporting history.
A Moment of Integrity in 2006
In an extensive interview with the French sports daily L’Équipe, marking the publication’s 80th anniversary, Zinedine Zidane revisited the events of the 2006 World Cup final. Zidane specifically highlighted the late Thierry Gilardi’s commentary following the infamous “headbutt” incident involving Marco Materazzi.
Zidane remarked that Gilardi remained “fair” and measured in his description of the event, despite the high emotions of the match. “In 2006, when what happened in the final happened, [Gilardi] was just,” Zidane stated. “Anyone else could have massacred me.” The former Real Madrid manager noted that while he did not hear the commentary live, discovering Gilardi’s words later left a lasting impression of respect for the journalist’s objectivity.
The Legacy of Thierry Gilardi
Thierry Gilardi, who passed away in March 2008 at the age of 49, remains a titan of French sports broadcasting. Known for his passionate delivery and deep tactical knowledge, he was the voice of major football and rugby fixtures for Canal+ and later TF1. His sudden death from a heart attack occurred just before a friendly match between France and England, leading to widespread mourning across the French sporting world.
Zidane’s recent comments add to a long list of tributes from French internationals. Following Gilardi’s death in 2008, winger Franck Ribéry famously paid tribute to the commentator after scoring a goal against England, highlighting the deep connection between the national team and the “voice” of French football.
Key Facts: Thierry Gilardi (1958–2008)
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thierry Gilardi |
| Born | 26 July 1958 (Saint-Germain-en-Laye) |
| Died | 25 March 2008 (Paris) |
| Primary Roles | Sports Commentator, Television Presenter, Actor |
| Notable Networks | Canal+, TF1 (Téléfoot) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Thierry Gilardi’s most famous commentary?
Gilardi is best remembered for his emotional commentary during the 2006 World Cup, particularly his reaction to Zinedine Zidane’s red card in the final, where he famously pleaded, “Not that, not today, not now, not after everything you’ve done.”
Why is Zinedine Zidane speaking about him now?
Zidane provided a “vibrant tribute” as part of a special interview series for the 80th anniversary of the French sports newspaper L’Équipe, reflecting on the media’s role in his career and his respect for Gilardi’s professionalism.
When did Thierry Gilardi pass away?
Thierry Gilardi died on 25 March 2008, following a heart attack. His death occurred only a day before a high-profile international friendly between France and England.