French media reports indicate that the player was found unresponsive in a hotel room on Île de Ré, an island off France’s western coast connected to the mainland by a bridge near La Rochelle.

According to reports, the player was discovered in a shower cubicle on Friday morning. Emergency services were called shortly before 10:30, with paramedics attempting to resuscitate him. Their efforts were unsuccessful, and he was declared dead at the scene.

Lions squad

The player, who is reportedly in his thirties, is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest. However, the exact circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.

Sources have independently confirmed the incident to OFM Sport. The player’s identity has not yet been made public, with reports indicating that his family had not been informed at the time of publication.

The Lions have confirmed that an incident occurred in France and have urged the media and public to exercise sensitivity while the situation is being handled.

In a message to colleagues, the Lions Rugby Company said:

“It is with deep sadness that we share that we have received distressing news from France, where the 10bet Lions are currently preparing for the opening match of the Investec Champions Cup.

“The Lions Rugby Company is in the process of preparing an official statement, which will be shared shortly.

“We ask that everyone please exercise sensitivity and discretion in the interim.”

?????????’???? ????´?????????? ????´?????????? ?????? ???? ?????????? C’est avec une profonde tristesse et le cœur lourd que nous annonçons le décès de notre jeune joueur, ???????????? (????????) ??????????????????, à l’âge de 20 ans. Le communiqué : https://t.co/5POgntZBXV https://t.co/ctyWmJSBtF

— ASBH Officiel (@ASBHOfficiel) July 10, 2026

The tragic reports come as the Lions prepare for a significant milestone in the franchise’s history, with the South Africans scheduled to make their Champions Cup debut against two-time European champions La Rochelle on Saturday.

The match is now in the spotlight, with suggestions that the fixture could be postponed or cancelled following the incident. However, no official announcement regarding the status of the match has been made.

Earlier in the year former South Africa U20 prop, Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini died of a heartattack while training at this club, Béziers, in France.

Further details are expected as the situation develops. This is a developing story.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport