Former Luxembourg Olympic Fencer & Politician Colette Flesch Passes Away

Former Luxembourg politician and Olympic fencer Colette Flesch has died at the age of 88.

Born on 16 April 1937 in Dudelange, Colette Flesch was a prominent figure in Luxembourg's political life. A member of the Democratic Party (DP), she served as Mayor of Luxembourg City from 1970 to 1980 and later as Deputy Prime Minister from 1980 to 1984. She also held several terms as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP), as well as other political positions.

Before her political career took off, Colette Flesch represented Luxembourg as a fencer at three Summer Olympic Games, competing in 1960, 1964 and 1968.

In later years, she also served as President of the Board of Directors of the non-profit organisation behind the Luxembourg City Film Festival (LuxFilmFest). She was succeeded in the role by Georges Santer in 2020.

According to our sources, Colette Flesch passed away during the night of Tuesday 20 to Wednesday 21 January 2026.

Condolence messages

Several politicians and other local figures have shared their messages of condolence following the news of Colette Flesch's death.

Among them is Luxembourg City Mayor Lydie Polfer (DP), who stated: "With her passing, Luxembourg has lost a politician whose exceptional commitment has left a lasting mark on our country and our capital. The first woman to hold the office of Mayor of Luxembourg City, from 1970 to 1980, she was a key figure in the modernisation of our capital and paved the way for a new generation of political leaders. During this period, she guided our capital through a phase of profound transformation, helping to strengthen its position on the national and European stage. She was also the first woman to serve as Minister of Foreign Affairs, confirming her pioneering role in Luxembourg's political history."

Mayor Polfer added that she would be remembered as "an eminently respected woman whose career and commitment, particularly in support of gender equality and the liberalisation of abortion, remain a source of inspiration for future generations."

Luxembourg's Deputy Prime Minister Xavier Bettel (also DP) shared his thoughts on social media, calling Colette Flesch "an athlete, a fighter, a politician, a good friend, but above all a 'grande dame' [as she was fondly known within the DP]."

Prime Minister Luc Frieden (CSV) stated, also on social media: "Colette Flesch. A pioneering woman. A European by conviction. Faithful to her values. Luxembourg will cherish her memory with pride and gratitude."

The City of Luxembourg (VdL) has also announced that a book of condolences will be available at City Hall in Place Guillaume II (Knuedler) from Thursday 22 January 2026 at 14:00 until Tuesday 27 January 2026, accessible weekdays from 08:00 to 17:00 and on Saturday from 08:00 to 12:00. Members of the public are invited to leave their messages of sympathy in honour of Colette Flesch. 

UPDATED to include condolence messages.