Tragedy as Lions player dies in France

NEWS: A member of the Lions playing squad has died in France on Friday.

By Warren Fortune · Rugby365

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 12:19 PM

Key Things to Know

Lions lock Hyron Andrews has tragically passed away at age 31 while on tour in France.
The Lions will still play their Champions Cup fixture against Stade Rochelais in Andrews' honor.
EPCR confirmed a moment of silence will be held before every European cup match this weekend.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Lions have announced the tragic death of 31-year-old lock Hyron Andrews while on tour in France. The former Sharks and Sale Sharks player passed away ahead of the team's Investec Champions Cup match against Stade Rochelais. Tributes were paid by Lions CEO Rudolf Straeuli, SA Rugby president Mark Alexander, and EPCR chairman Dominic McKay, offering condolences to Andrews' wife Maiglin and their two young sons.

The Lions confirmed that they will still fulfill their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle in honor of Andrews. Additionally, the EPCR announced that a moment's silence will be observed prior to every Investec Champions Cup and EPCR Challenge Cup match across the weekend.

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Tragedy as Lions player dies in France

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