South African and French rugby have been rocked by the sudden death of promising player Luqobo Makwedini, 20, who collapsed after a training session with French PRO D2 side Beziers and died hours later in hospital.
Makwedini, a prop who had earned age-grade honours for South Africa, collapsed on Friday morning after training at the Stade de la Gayonne. He was rushed to hospital but succumbed a few hours later. French media report that he is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest, though the exact cause of death has not been officially confirmed.
Rising Star at Beziers
Affectionately known as "Bibo", Makwedini had recently joined Beziers' academy ahead of the 2025/26 season after coming through the ranks at Wynberg Boys' High School in Cape Town. He was regarded as one of the club's brightest young prospects and had been tipped to step up to the senior squad for the upcoming Pro D2 campaign.
Beziers, whose president is former Springbok captain Bob Skinstad, confirmed Makwedini's death in a statement on Friday evening.
Club President Bob Skinstad Pays Tribute
Skinstad said: "Luqobo joined our training centre during the off-season and quickly became a valued member of the Red and Blue family. His commitment, kindness and personal qualities deeply impressed everyone at the club. Today, the entire Red and Blue family is united in mourning and deeply shaken by this heartbreaking loss. We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to his family, loved ones, teammates and all those who had the privilege of knowing him."
Skinstad added: "We respectfully request that the club, our players and Bibo's loved ones be given the time and privacy they need to grieve during this extremely difficult period."
Tributes from French Rugby Community
Tributes poured in from across the French rugby community following the announcement. The French professional rugby players' union, Provale, offered its condolences to Makwedini's family, friends and teammates, as well as everyone at Béziers, describing it as an incredibly difficult time for all those affected.
