- South African rugby player Hyron Andrews died of a suspected heart attack while on tour in France with the Lions on Friday, 16 October 2026
- The 31-year-old rugby star passed away at the team's hotel ahead of the Lions' debut Champions Cup match against La Rochelle
- South Africa's Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie responded to the news of Andrews' death on X on Friday evening
The Lions rugby franchise confirmed on Friday, 16 October 2026, that 31-year-old South African rugby player Hyron Andrews passed away in France after suffering a suspected heart attack, sending shockwaves through the international rugby community.
Andrews, who joined the Johannesburg-based franchise at the start of the current season, died at the team's hotel in France ahead of the Lions' debut Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle, which had been scheduled for Saturday.
McKenzie responds to Andrews' death
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie was among the first public figures to respond to the news, posting a tribute on his official X account on Friday after the Lions made their announcement.
"Rest in peace Hyron Andrews 🥹," McKenzie wrote.
Lions confirm tragic loss
The Lions issued their confirmation of Andrews' passing on Friday afternoon, describing his death as a devastating blow to the franchise.
The news spread rapidly across the rugby world, with the timing, on the eve of a significant European competition debut, adding to the weight of the loss felt by players, staff and supporters alike.
Andrews was 31 years old at the time of his death.
The Lions described the lock forward as a cherished member of their rugby family, adding that his passing would leave a deep void among his teammates, coaching staff, supporters and everyone who had the opportunity to know him.
The club extended its sincere condolences to Andrews’ wife, Maighlin, their young sons and the wider Andrews family. They also asked the public to respect the family’s privacy as they navigate this difficult period of grief.
The Lions further announced that they would dedicate their opening Champions Cup fixture to Andrews in his memory. The team confirmed that additional details about a fitting tribute would be communicated at a later stage.
Source: Briefly News