A spectator suffered a cardiac arrest and was taken to hospital during La Rochelle's Champions Cup match against the Lions on Saturday, one day after the death of South African player Hyron Andrews. The supporter fell seriously ill at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre ahead of kick-off, with emergency services providing treatment.
Medical emergency at the stadium
French broadcaster RMC Sport reported that paramedics and firefighters treated the spectator while a section of the main stand was cordoned off and closed to the public for around 30 minutes. Early reports indicated the person's heart had restarted before they were transported to hospital in La Rochelle. No fatalities were recorded at the ground, according to the broadcaster.
Lions honour late team-mate
The incident unfolded on a poignant day for the Lions, who played fewer than 24 hours after the death of Andrews, aged 31. The second-row forward was found unresponsive at the team's hotel on the Ile de Re on Friday morning. South African Rugby Union officials confirmed he had died following a fall at the hotel, with an investigation launched into the circumstances.
The Lions chose to honour their Champions Cup commitment as a tribute to Andrews. His No.5 jersey was placed on the pitch as players from both teams observed a minute's silence. Several Lions players were visibly moved, while La Rochelle's South African players presented a jersey to the visiting squad. Home supporters applauded spontaneously as both sides prepared to kick off.
Tributes continue during the match
Tributes continued throughout the game. Shortly after the Lions took the lead through Henco van Wyk, fans rose to applaud in the fifth minute in Andrews' honour. Andrews, who previously played for Sale Sharks and the Hollywoodbets Sharks, had recently signed for the Johannesburg-based Lions. He is survived by his wife, Maiglin, and their two young sons.
The Lions delivered a resolute display on their Champions Cup debut but fell to a 31-14 defeat against La Rochelle. At the final whistle, the travelling players received a standing ovation from the home faithful, and La Rochelle's squad formed a guard of honour as the Lions paid their final respects. Tributes poured in from former clubs, team-mates and officials across the rugby world.
