International Rugby Board (IRB) chairman Bernard Lapasset said: "I am delighted this award is going to a man who has contributed so much to the development of rugby throughout Europe and someone who truly embodies the attributes of integrity, passion, determination and dedication.

"The global rugby family is extremely grateful for his immense contribution."

In a remarkable career, Baque was appointed President of Fédération Internationale de Rugby Amateur (FIRA) in 1998, having served as vice-president of the Fédération Française de Rugby (FFR) and as president of his regional committee.

Throughout his career Baque has championed age grade rugby.

Under his guidance the FIRA-AER Under 19 Championship flourished into a major internationally-renowned tournament, providing regular and competitive rugby for many players who would go on to grace the international stage.

The tournament would eventually form the embryonic beginnings of the IRB Under-19 World Championship and latterly the IRB Junior World Championship, which is now a key event in the rugby calendar and provides a vital international player development pathway.

Baque began his rugby career at the famous Stade Toulousain where he captained the team to Junior French Championship victory.

Captaincy of the junior national team and senior rugby at SC Graulhet followed, before a switch to coaching in 1968.

In a hugely successful coaching career, Baque enjoyed accolades with the French junior national team, Morocco senior national team and France A before leaving behind activities on the pitch for those in the boardroom.

Previous winners of the IRB Vernon Pugh Award for Distinguished Service include Noel Murphy, Sir Nicholas Shehadie, Jose Epalza, Brian Lochore, Peter Crittle, Ronnie Dawson, Vernon Pugh, Bill McLaren, George Pippos, Kath McLean, Sir Terry McLean, Albert Farasse and John Eales.