Sunderland AFC has been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of non-executive director Patrick Treuer at the age of 52.
A Sudden and Tragic Loss
The club confirmed the devastating news on Christmas Day, December 25, stating it was "deeply saddened" by the passing of a key figure in its recent revival. The announcement came after the Louis Dreyfus Company, where Treuer served as Chief Financial Officer, revealed he had died unexpectedly overnight on December 24.
Treuer joined the Black Cats' board in 2021, taking over as finance director from Angela Lowes following the arrival of chairman Kyril Louis-Dreyfus. He served as a non-executive director alongside Igor Levin, a legal representative for the Louis-Dreyfus family.
Architect of a Premier League Return
In its heartfelt statement, Sunderland highlighted the active role Treuer played in the club's journey from League One to the Premier League. His financial acumen and strategic input were integral during a period of significant transformation at the Stadium of Light.
The club's statement read: "Patrick played an active role in SAFC's journey from League One to the Premier League and he will be greatly missed. All at SAFC send their heartfelt condolences to Patrick's family and loved ones at this immensely difficult time."
Treuer was part of a board that includes other non-executives such as Maurice Louis-Dreyfus, Juan Sartori, Simon Vumbaca, and Leo Pearlman.
A Legacy of Stability and Success
Treuer's tenure coincided with a pivotal era for the club. In 2022, the Louis Dreyfus group increased its stake in Sunderland to a controlling 51%, consolidating ownership and ending speculation of a sale to external parties like a cryptocurrency consortium.
This move provided stability, with the ownership group stating at the time: "We remain committed to our strategy of delivering long-term success and sustainability." That strategy bore fruit spectacularly, as within three years of securing majority control, Sunderland, under manager Regis Le Bris, won promotion back to the Premier League via the Championship play-off final against Sheffield United.
The club is currently enjoying a strong season back in the top flight, sitting sixth in the table and just two points off the Champions League places. The team is next in action on December 28, hosting Leeds United at the Stadium of Light in what will now be a poignant fixture.
Patrick Treuer's passing leaves a significant void both at Sunderland AFC and the Louis Dreyfus Company, where he had held the CFO position since 2014.
