Rugby pays tribute to Hyron Andrews

South African lock Hyron Andrews died aged 31 at the Lions' team hotel in France. Clubs across European rugby honoured him this weekend.

Oct 17, 2026

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Rugby pays tribute to Hyron Andrews

South African lock Hyron Andrews died aged 31 at the Lions' team hotel in France. Clubs across European rugby honoured him this weekend.

In brief

South African lock Hyron Andrews died aged 31 at the Lions' team hotel in France. Clubs across European rugby honoured him this weekend. Hyron Andrews, a South African rugby lock aged 31, died at the Lions' team hotel in France on Friday. Clubs across European rugby paid tribute to him at matches on Saturday…

South African lock dies at Lions hotel

Hyron Andrews, a 31-year-old South African lock, died at the Lions' team hotel in France on Friday, a day before their Champions Cup pool game against La Rochelle.

Lions choose to play in Andrews' honour

Lions choose to play in Andrews' honour

The Lions decided to fulfil their fixture against La Rochelle to celebrate Andrews and show respect to his wife and children. Head coach Ivan van Rooyen said it was not about winning or losing.

“It's not about winning or losing today. It's not about rugby.”

Tributes during the match in France

Tributes during the match in France

La Rochelle supporters applauded as Lions players entered the field. Both sides wore black armbands. Andrews' number five jersey was laid on the turf. Three South African La Rochelle players presented a commemorative jersey.

Sale Sharks remember former player

Sale Sharks remember former player

Andrews spent just over two years with Sale before departing at the end of last season to return to South Africa.

“He came here under-rated and got opportunities to show what he is capable of.”

Sale squad supports Andrews' family

Sanderson told BBC Radio 5 Live the squad had come together during the trauma.He said Andrews' impact off the field was greater than on it, and the club would help his family get through it.

“His impact and what he gave off the field was far more from what he gave on it.”

The main idea

Hyron Andrews, a South African rugby lock aged 31, died at the Lions' team hotel in France on Friday. Clubs across European rugby paid tribute to him at matches on Saturday.

Read the original on BBC Sport

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