Jean Zarzecki, a co-founder of Royal Francs Borains and a towering figure in the history of the Borinage region’s football identity, has died at the age of 92, the club announced. Royal Francs Borains confirmed the news during the international break, paying tribute to the man who helped shape the club from its inception and guided it through some of its most memorable sporting chapters.
The Foundations in Boussu-Bois and Élouges
Born in Élouges in 1934, Zarzecki’s journey into football began under the guidance of Clovis, a local coal miner who also served as his youth coach. According to club archives, Clovis instilled in him a deep respect, dedication, and love for the sport that would define his later endeavors. As he grew into a successful businessman, Zarzecki channeled that early passion directly into the regional game.
In 1982, following the merger of Élouges and Boussu-Bois, Zarzecki joined forces with Robert Urbain to establish Royal Francs Borains.
The Historic 1986 Cup Campaign
Under Zarzecki’s presidential leadership, Royal Francs Borains reached the pinnacle of its early history during the 1986 Belgian Cup. The Henegouwen outfit surged through the tournament brackets, capturing the imagination of supporters across the region.
In the round of 16, Francs Borains overcame Sint-Truidense VV over two legs before eliminating RFC Seraing in the subsequent round. The fairytale run ultimately halted in the semi-finals against Cercle Brugge, which advanced with 2-0 and 5-0 victories. Despite the exit, the 1986 cup run remains etched in club lore as a golden era under Zarzecki’s stewardship.
A Lasting Identity in the Borinage
Beyond his formal titles as president and later honorary president, Zarzecki left a cultural imprint on the region. In a statement released on the club’s official channels, Royal Francs Borains reflected on his enduring legacy: “Jean leaves us much more than just a name or a story. He leaves us a club, his club, an identity, an ambition, and values deeply rooted in the Borinage.”
Jean Zarzecki nous a quittés. Né à Élouges en 1934, il fonde les Francs Borains en 1982 avec Robert Urbain. De Clovis à la demi-finale de Coupe de Belgique 1986, il a donné au Borinage un club et une identité. Votre enfant est entre de bonnes mains. Merci, Président. 💚🤍 https://t.co/3vAMofD123
— Royal Francs Borains (@FrancsBorains) October 4, 2026
The club reassured its late founder regarding the current trajectory of the team, which has made significant strides in recent seasons and aims to contend for promotion to the Jupiler Pro League. “Your brainchild is in good hands, dear president,” the club stated.
Belgian Football Pays Tribute as Cause of Death Remains Unknown
As condolences poured in from across Belgian football, no specific cause of death was mentioned in the club's official announcements.
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