A public relations manager for Abarca Sports' teams for more than two decades, the Frenchman passed away on Thursday. He was 68.

Movistar Team deeply regrets the passing of an irreplaceable personality, without which its development as a sports organisation in its early years cannot be understood. Francis Lafargue (Biarritz, FRA; 1955), public relations manager for the squads led by José Miguel Echávarri and Eusebio Unzué for more than twenty years -Reynolds, Banesto, Illes Balears, Caisse d’Épargne and the current Telefónica-backed squad-, died on Thursday.

Having supported the Abarca structure from the Tour de France of 1983, when he was still working for the French Social Security system -he had been a competitive cyclist himself at youth stage-, and a fully-fledged member of its teams from 1988 and until 2011, Francis was a great collaborator, a problem solver, a diligent interpreter, a trustworthy person. He earned respect and appreciation from the most legendary figures in Spanish and international cycling, such as Pedro Delgado, Julián Gorospe and Miguel Indurain, taking care of their image and making life easier for them when it come to dealing with the media and all kinds of entourage.

His contribution to cycling, to which he remained linked until his late years with other cycling squads from Spain, is as undeniable as profound was the marks left by his affable character and his flawless work, part of the life of every single member he shared teams with.

We will really miss you, dear friend Francis. Rest in peace.