Jean Poczobut has died at the age of 80 ©Getty Images

International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) President Sebastian Coe has paid tribute to the governing body’s former honorary treasurer Jean Poczobut, who has died at the age of 80.

The Frenchman served as a member of the IAAF Council from 1995 to 2011 and in 2003, he took up the treasurer role.

He was praised by the IAAF for helping the organisation through the global financial crisis during his time in the post.

He was awarded the IAAF Veteran Pin in 2003, with the honour recognising the contribution to the global and national athletics movement.

Poczobut would then receive the IAAF Golden Order of Merit in 2011, while at the time of his death was Honorary Life Vice President of the governing body and honorary member of the International Athletics Foundation.

“Jean Poczobut dedicated his life to athletics,” Coe said.

“Jean exuded passion and excitement for our sport.

“His great sporting knowledge reflecting decades of service and his seemingly inexhaustible spirit and good humour will be sadly missed.

“It was a privilege to serve on the IAAF Council with him.”

Jean Poczobut (left) was praised for having helped steer the IAAF through the global financial crisis ©Getty Images
Jean Poczobut (left) was praised for having helped steer the IAAF through the global financial crisis ©Getty Images

Poczobut began his career as a coach back in 1956 and was the French national high jump coach from 1976 to 1977.

He became the technical director for the French Athletics Federation from 1978 to 1984, while he served as their deputy director from 1986 to 1989.

In 1993, Poczobut was elected as the President of the French Athletics Federation and was chairman of the organising committee for the 1997 World Indoor Championships in Paris.

When his mandate drew to a close, he worked as the technical sport adviser to the Cabinet of the Minister for Youth and Sport in France from 1997 to 2003.

His funeral is set to take place on January 10.