The sports journalist Jean-René Godart died at the age of 74. A key figure in cycling and sport on French television, he had influenced several generations of viewers with his passion, his rigor and his instantly recognizable voice. Formerly an iconic face of France Télévisions andEurope 1, he leaves behind an immense legacy in the world of sports journalism.
A career dedicated to sport and cycling
Born in 1951 in Reims, Jean-René Godart began his career in the regional press before joining radio, where he started out in Europe 1 in the 1970s. Very quickly, he established himself as one of the specialists in cycling, a sport whose values of effort and surpassing oneself he shared. His precise tone, his enthusiasm and his knowledge of the pelotons earned him the recognition of his peers and the esteem of the public.
For more than three decades, he has commentated on the biggest races, in particular the Tour de France, which he covered at 33 timesFrom the voice of Bernard Hinault's exploits to the victories of Miguel Indurain and Chris Froome, he was a privileged witness to the evolution of modern cycling. His style, combining emotion, precision and accessibility, helped make the Tour an unmissable event for sports fans.
The great France Télévisions adventure
In 1994, Jean-René Godart joined France Télévisions, where he became one of the pillars of the sports department. He notably embodied “All Sport”, the channel's flagship show, while continuing to commentate on the biggest sporting events. He also distinguished himself on Roland Garros and on several editions of the Olympic Games, covering both summer and winter competitions.
Appreciated for his versatility and professionalism, he stands out for his human approach to journalism, always placing athletes at the center of his stories. For many viewers, his voice evokes summer afternoons spent following the stages of the Tour or the exploits of French champions on the tennis courts.
A well-deserved retirement after more than forty years of career
Weakened by health problems, Jean-René Godart had taken his retirement in 2018 after a career spanning more than forty years. His last television appearance was in 2015, before he gradually retired from broadcasting. His departure was welcomed by his colleagues and the public, who were aware that they were losing a key figure in French sports journalism.
Despite his discretion in his later years, Jean-René Godart remained a benchmark in the world of sport. Several generations of journalists credit him with playing a mentor and a mentor, passing on a love of reporting and respect for the athletes' voices.
