Montreal Alouettes president Mario Cecchini confirmed Thursday morning the news that had been circulating for two days: his contract has not been renewed for the 2023 season.
Cecchini posted a message on his social media in which he addresses players, employees, sponsors and supporters.
“You now know that the estate told me on Monday that my contract was not renewed,” he wrote first. I’m disappointed of course, but it’s their prerogative and I have to respect it. »
“So I say thank you to all of you,” he continues. To the players, [pour] so many emotions and especially for your dedication on the field and to the fans. To the employees who I know have given everything to meet the challenges head on. »
Cecchini, hired at the same time as general manager Danny Maciocia in January 2020, also thanks the fans for their presence, their discussions and their passion before highlighting the work of Maciocia, his “ partner in crime “.
” [Danny fut] quite an accomplice and [j’ai] rarely seen such dedication. I wish we meet again. »
The announcement of the non-renewal of Cecchini’s contract surprised many, considering that, under the president, attendance at local Alouettes games went from 13,063 in 2021 to 17,683 in 2022.
In a press conference during the presentation of the new Sparrows head coach on Wednesday, Maciocia was asked to react to the departure of Cecchini, his longtime friend.
“Everyone knows my feelings for Mario”, he noted without however lingering on the subject, because despite the sadness which inhabited him, he refused that this bad news cast a shadow on arrival. from Maas.