The tragic accident which cost the lives of Total Chief Executive Christophe de Margerie and the three crew members of his corporate jet after it collided on take off with a snowplough driven by an allegedy drunk airport employee, has cost French industry of one of its most charismatic and influential players.
A statement from the office of French President Francois Hollande said: “Christophe de Margerie dedicated his life to French industry and to building up the Total group. He made it into one of the very top global companies
“Francois Hollande cherished Christophe de Margerie’s independent character, original personality and his devotion to his country.”
And there were condolences too from the motorsport industry:
“On behalf of the International Motor Sports Association, I offer our deepest condolences to family and friends of TOTAL CEO Christophe de Margerie, along with the other airplane passengers who tragically passed away yesterday in Russia,” said IMSA CEO Ed Bennett. “I also wish to extend condolences to the staff and employees at TOTAL on the loss of their dynamic leader in the oil industry. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
Pierre Fillon, President of the Automobile Club de l’Ouest: “The Automobile Club de l’Ouest was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Christophe de Margerie, the Total CEO. In the name of the ACO and all its collaborators I would like to express my condolences to Mr. de Margerie’s family and close friends, as well as to those of the members of the crew who so tragically died with him. In this terrible time our thoughts are with all the collaborators of the Total Group, a major faithful partner of the ACO and its activities beginning with the Le Mans 24 Hours and its offshoots. A great captain of industry with whom we shared the passion for innovation and mobility for the benefit of everybody has left us.”
