South African rugby player Hyron Andrews has died in France, just one day before the Lions were scheduled to face La Rochelle in the Champions Cup. The 31-year-old lock was found dead at a hotel on Friday, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.
French authorities confirmed that Andrews died on the island of Île de Ré, near the western coastal city of La Rochelle. The local prosecutor has opened an investigation to establish the cause of death, with accidental death currently the main line of inquiry.
Investigation Underway Into Hyron Andrews’ Death
A source close to the investigation said Andrews was found in cardiac arrest inside a shower cubicle locked from the inside. Authorities have not yet established the precise cause of death, while an autopsy is expected to provide further information.
The investigation comes as the Lions prepare for their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle. Despite the tragedy, the South African club confirmed that Saturday’s match would proceed as scheduled.
Lions Pay Tribute to Their Teammate
The Lions expressed deep sorrow over Andrews’ death, describing him as an important member of their team and rugby family.
“This devastating news has sent shockwaves through the international rugby community,” the Lions said in a statement.
“The former Sharks and Sale Sharks lock forward was a valued member of the Lions family, and his loss will be felt profoundly by his teammates, coaches, supporters and all who had the privilege of knowing him.”
Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli also paid tribute to the player, who had joined the club earlier this season.
“We are heartbroken by the passing of Hyron. He was not only a gifted rugby player, but also a cherished member of our Lions family, having recently joined us this season,” Straeuli said.
He extended his condolences to Andrews’ wife, Maighlin, their young sons, Hendrix and Emerson, and the wider family.
From the Sharks to Sale Sharks and the Lions
Andrews began his professional career with the Sharks franchise in Durban and represented South Africa at Under-20 level. Earlier this year, he returned home after spending two seasons with English Premiership club Sale Sharks.
He subsequently joined the Johannesburg-based Lions, becoming part of the squad preparing for its first Champions Cup campaign. His death has therefore affected teammates and supporters across South Africa and the wider international rugby community.
South African Rugby Union president Mark Alexander also expressed his condolences, recognising Andrews’ contribution to the sport.
“Hyron was a respected member of the rugby community whose contribution to the game and impact on those around him will be remembered with great fondness,” Alexander said.
“His untimely passing is a devastating loss, and we share in the grief of all who knew and loved him.
“The thoughts and prayers of the entire South African rugby family are with Maighlin and all those mourning his loss.”
Champions Cup Matches to Honour Andrews
The Lions confirmed that Saturday’s match against La Rochelle would proceed “in honour of Hyron”. Organisers will also hold a moment of silence before all Champions Cup and second-tier Challenge Cup fixtures this weekend.
The tragedy also falls exactly ten years after the death of former Munster coach Anthony Foley. He died aged 42 from a heart rhythm disorder in his sleep, hours before his team was due to face Racing 92 in Paris in October 2016.
La Rochelle coach Ronan O’Gara was part of the Racing coaching staff when Foley, his former Ireland international teammate, died.
Meanwhile, Bordeaux-Bègles are scheduled to begin their campaign later on Friday against Gloucester. The French club is seeking a record-equalling third consecutive Champions Cup title.
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