3 questions to ERIC LISSILLOUR

This month, discover behind the scenes of arbitration through the portrait of Éric LISSILLOUR. Present at the Yonex IFB since 2007, he will officiate during the 2026 edition as a local deputy umpire, alongside the umpires appointed by the BWF to ensure the success of the event.

What does your role as an umpire on the Yonex IFB involve?

« My role at Yonex IFB 2026 will be that of a « local deputy referee » that is, a local assistant judge. It consists in facilitating the work of the umpires appointed by the international federation (BWF) on all points useful for them (contact with the organization, translations if necessary, practical aspects, ...). The senior umpire may also delegate certain tasks to me under his responsibility. »

What does your typical day look like during the Yonex IFB week?

« I am on the judge-referee team, so I accompany the two umpires appointed by the BWF from morning to night. We participate in briefings, meetings, discussions on all points related to the competition and make the connection with the management of the competition. My day starts at the venue at least one hour before the start of matches and ends at least one hour after the end of matches. »

You have been participating in the Yonex IFB for many years. What is your best memory of the competition?

« Indeed, my first French Internationals date back to 2007 ( « Super Series » ) when I started with the same positioning as a « local deputy referee » then in training as a European judge. For several years, I had been supporting the federation and no longer the umpires in a position of competition director. I have a lot of good memories of this wonderful competition but my best memory, in terms of competition in any case, is perhaps the last French Open in Rennes, my city, where a Frenchman, Christo POPOV, participated in the final. »