DEVELOPING STORY: Tragedy strikes Lions in France ahead of Champions Cup debut against La Rochelle

The Lions have been struck by tragedy in France after a player reportedly died of a suspected heart attack at the team’s hotel ahead of their debut Champions Cup match against La Rochelle on Saturday.

The Johannesburg-based franchise confirmed on Friday afternoon that it had received distressing news from France, where the squad is preparing for their first-ever clash in Europe’s elite club rugby competition.

In a statement, the Lions Rugby Company said it was in the process of preparing an official announcement, which would be shared shortly. It is also expected that European Professional Club Rugby, organisers of the tournament, will call the match off.

“We ask that everyone please exercise sensitivity and discretion in the interim,” the franchise said.

According to reports from French media, the player, who was in his thirties, was found unresponsive in a shower at the hotel on Île de Ré, where the Lions are staying ahead of the match.

Emergency services reportedly arrived shortly after 10am on Friday but were unable to resuscitate the player, who was pronounced dead at the scene. The player’s identity has not yet been confirmed.

French media further reported that psychological support had been arranged for members of the Lions squad and staff, as well as employees at the hotel, following the devastating news.

The tragedy has cast a shadow over the Lions’ preparations for their Champions Cup opener, with the franchise expected to provide further details in an official statement. It is reported that the clash will be postponed by tournament organisers, EPCR, with an official announcement expected on Friday.