Last Updated on 5 hours ago by Vijay Kumar
South African rugby player Hyron Andrews has died at the age of 31 while in France with the Lions rugby team. His death was confirmed on October 16, 2026, by the Lions and the South African Rugby Union.
According to the South African Rugby Union, Andrews died following an accident at the team’s hotel in France. He was there with the Lions ahead of their European Champions Cup match against French club La Rochelle.
Lions Rugby Co wrote on Facebook, “It is with broken hearts that we mourn the passing of Hyron Andrews, a valued member of our Lions family.
Our deepest condolences are with Maiglin, Hendrix, Emerson and the entire Andrews family during this incredibly difficult time.
Rest in peace, Hyron. You will always be part of our family. ❤️”
French media reports stated that Andrews was found unconscious in a hotel shower, and emergency services were unable to revive him. Authorities have opened an investigation to establish the circumstances and cause of his death.
The Lions expressed their grief over the loss of Andrews, describing him as a valued member of the team. The club also confirmed that its scheduled match against La Rochelle would proceed in his honour.
Hyron Diego Andrews was a South African professional rugby union player who played as a lock forward. Born in Paarl, South Africa, he attended Hoërskool Garsfontein in Pretoria and developed his career through the country’s rugby system.
Andrews spent approximately a decade with the Durban-based Sharks, representing the club from 2014 to 2024. During his time there, he established himself as a respected member of the squad.
In 2024, he joined Sale Sharks in England. He went on to make 45 appearances for the club, contributing to the team’s performances in English rugby competitions.
After his spell in England, Andrews returned to South Africa and joined the Lions ahead of the 2026–27 season. He featured in all three of the Lions’ United Rugby Championship matches before his death.
Andrews also represented South Africa at under-20 level in 2015, earning two appearances for the Junior Springboks. Although he never represented the senior South African national team, he built a career across South African and English professional rugby.
His former clubs remembered him as a talented player, a valued teammate, and a devoted family man.
Hyron Andrews is survived by his wife, Maighlin Andrews, and their two young sons, Hendrix and Emerson. His extended family, friends, teammates, and the wider rugby community are also mourning his loss.
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