Regarded at the time as one of the best officials in the world,[1][2] he was renowned for his pedagogy and his intent to protect the players' physical integrity and welfare.

[3][4] Jérôme Garcès was born on (1973-10-24)24 October 1973 in Pau, France and played as a wing at an amateur level in his hometown club of Arudy.

In 2015 he refereed Japan's memorable victory over South Africa at Brighton's Falmer Stadium during the World Cup.

After being appointed as an assistant referee for the first game, he officiated in the second test and showed a red card to Sonny Bill Williams in the 24th minute after a shoulder charge to the head of Lions wing Anthony Watson.

[13][14] In 2021, Garcès joined the France national team coaching staff as a discipline and refereeing advisor.