'Heartbroken' - All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao confirms son's death

Rugby News

by Rugby Rucker

Tuesday, 17 February 2026 at 06:10

byRugby Rucker

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Former All Blacks prop Angus Ta’avao has shared the devastating news that his young son, Leo, has passed away.

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Taking to social media on Tuesday, Ta’avao confirmed the heartbreaking loss.

“We are heartbroken to share that our beautiful boy Leo has gained his angel wings,” he wrote.
“After a brief battle in PICU, Leo passed away surrounded by his loved ones.”

Leo was born with partial-trisomy-13, a rare genetic condition that affects a child’s growth and development. He spent the first three months of his life in hospital and faced ongoing health challenges with the unwavering support of his family.

In an emotional tribute, Ta’avao spoke of the enormous void left behind.

“You have left a giant Leo sized hole in our hearts darling, we will miss you so so much. Til we meet again our baby boy.”

Leo had long been a source of inspiration for his father. In a 2018 interview with Stuff, when Leo was just 14 months old, Ta’avao spoke about the profound impact his son had on him.

“If I'm having a difficult day, seeing him makes it all better,” he said at the time.
“The smile he gives us, gets me. It sounds so cliché, but when I see that, it melts my heart.”

Following the announcement, an outpouring of support flooded in from across the rugby community.

All Blacks captain Ardie Savea wrote: “Praying and thinking of you and the family uso.”

Former Black Ferns Sevens star and current Warrior Michaela Blyde added: “So heartbroken for you Angus. To you and your family, we send love and prayers.”

Ex-All Black Israel Dagg shared: “Brother my heart aches for you all I’m so sorry for your loss.”