Former South Africa Under-18 rugby prop Luqobo Makwedini has died after collapsing following a training session with French club AS Béziers Hérault.
The 20-year-old, affectionately known as “Bibo”, reportedly fell ill at the end of a morning training session at the Stade de la Gayonne on Friday. He was rushed to hospital, where he died a few hours later.
According to reports in France, Makwedini is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest, although the exact cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed.
Originally from Cape Town, Makwedini was a product of Wynberg Boys’ High School and had joined the AS Béziers academy ahead of the 2025/26 season. He was regarded as one of the club’s brightest young talents and had been identified for promotion to the senior squad ahead of the upcoming Pro D2 campaign.
The club confirmed his passing in a statement released on Friday.
Club president and former Springboks captain Bob Skinstad paid tribute to the young prop, describing him as a valued member of the team.
“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.”
Skinstad added that the entire club was mourning the tragic loss.
“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.”
Makwedini’s death has sent shockwaves through the South African rugby community, with tributes pouring in for the promising young front-rower whose career was only just beginning.
