The Lions lock died after a fall at the team’s hotel in La Rochelle, with French authorities investigating the circumstances of his death.

La Rochelle, France — South African rugby player Hyron Andrews has died at the age of 31 while in France with the Johannesburg-based Lions for their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.

South African Rugby confirmed that Andrews died following a fall at the team’s hotel.

French prosecutors said the player was found unresponsive in a shower area, with no immediate signs of violence.

Authorities have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death, which is currently being treated as a suspected accident.

Hyron Andrews dies during Lions’ Champions Cup trip

Andrews had travelled to France with the Lions for their European Champions Cup match against La Rochelle.

His death occurred during the team’s stay ahead of the fixture, prompting tributes from teammates, clubs and the wider rugby community.

French authorities are investigating the incident to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Prosecutors have indicated that there were no immediate signs of violence, although the investigation remains ongoing.

Former Sharks and Sale Sharks lock remembered

Andrews joined the Lions this season after leaving English Premiership club Sale Sharks, where he made 45 appearances following his arrival in 2024.

Before moving to England, the South African lock spent nearly a decade with the Durban-based Sharks, becoming an established player in the country’s domestic rugby competitions.

He also represented South Africa at junior international level in 2015.

His professional career took him from South African rugby to England before his return to the Lions.

Lions honor Hyron Andrews during La Rochelle match

The Lions went ahead with their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle following Andrews’ death, with the match played in his honor.

Tributes were also observed during the opening round of European rugby competition, including moments of silence in remembrance of the player.

His death has drawn condolences from the Lions, former clubs, teammates and rugby supporters in South Africa and abroad.

French authorities are continuing their investigation, with the circumstances of the incident yet to be fully established.