A player from South Africa's Lions rugby team has reportedly died in France ahead of Saturday's Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.
According to French media reports, the player was found unresponsive at the team's hotel on Île de Ré on Friday morning (16 October).
Emergency services were reportedly called to the scene, but attempts to save the player were unsuccessful.
The player's identity has not been officially confirmed, while the circumstances surrounding the reported death remain unclear.
The news has also been reported by the Irish Examiner.
Lions issue first statement
The Lions Rugby Company has issued an initial statement following the tragic news from France.
In a statement reported by South African publication IOL, the club said:
“It is with deep sadness that we share that we have received distressing news from France.”
The club indicated that a fuller statement was being prepared and requested sensitivity and discretion while the situation was being handled.
The player's identity has not yet been officially confirmed.
Investigation opened following Lions player's death
French authorities have confirmed that an investigation has been opened following the reported death of a Lions rugby player.
According to French publication INF La Rochelle, local prosecutor Arnaud Laraize confirmed that an autopsy has been ordered to establish the cause of death.
The player's identity has not yet been officially announced.
The Lions have requested sensitivity and discretion while further information is being prepared.
Champions Cup fixture
The Johannesburg-based Lions had travelled to France for their opening Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle on Saturday, 17 October.
The South African side had named a 30-man touring squad earlier this week.
At the time of writing, there has been no confirmed announcement regarding the status of Saturday's match.
Investigation into player's death
French media have reported that local authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the player's death.
According to reports, an autopsy has been ordered to help establish the cause of death.
No official findings have been released, and the player's identity has not yet been publicly confirmed.
Support for players
According to French publication 20 Minutes, the hotel where the Lions squad were staying has arranged psychological support following the tragedy.
The support is reportedly available to members of the South African team and hotel staff.
The player's identity has not yet been officially confirmed, while the circumstances surrounding the death remain unclear.
There has also been no official announcement regarding the status of Saturday's Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.
RUCK will update this article as further official information becomes available.
Our thoughts are with the player's family, friends, teammates and everyone affected by this deeply sad news.
More to follow.
