Paramedics and firefighters called to stadium incident as tribute held for Lions player

13:16, 18 Oct 2026Updated 14:53, 18 Oct 2026

A spectator suffered a cardiac arrest and was rushed to hospital at La Rochelle’s emotional Champions Cup match against the Lions, just a day after the tragic death of South African rugby player Hyron Andrews.

The supporter became seriously unwell at the Stade Marcel-Deflandre ahead of Saturday’s fixture, with emergency services called to provide treatment.

According to French broadcaster RMC Sport, the spectator was treated by paramedics and firefighters as part of the main stand was secured and closed to the public for around 30 minutes.

Initial reports indicated that the person’s heart had restarted before they were taken to hospital in La Rochelle. No deaths were reported at the stadium, according to the broadcaster.

The incident came on an emotional day for the Lions, who took to the field less than 24 hours after the death of team-mate Andrews, aged 31.

The second-row was found unresponsive at the South African side’s hotel on the Île de Ré on Friday morning. South African Rugby Union officials confirmed he had died following a fall at the team hotel, while an investigation into the circumstances of his death was opened.

The Lions decided to fulfil their Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle in honour of Andrews, with both teams and supporters paying tribute before kick-off.

Andrews’ No. 5 jersey was laid on the pitch as players from both sides stood together for a minute’s silence. Several Lions players were visibly emotional as they remembered their team-mate, while La Rochelle’s South African players presented a jersey to the visiting side.

The home supporters also gave the Lions a warm reception, with the crowd breaking into spontaneous applause as the teams prepared to play.

The tributes continued during the match. Shortly after the Lions scored through Henco van Wyk, supporters rose to applaud in the fifth minute in Andrews’ memory.

Andrews, who had previously played for Sale Sharks and the Hollywoodbets Sharks, had recently joined the Johannesburg-based Lions. He leaves behind his wife, Maiglin, and their two young sons.

Despite the circumstances, the Lions produced a determined performance on their Champions Cup debut but were beaten 31-14 by La Rochelle.

At the final whistle, the visiting players received a standing ovation from the home crowd, with La Rochelle’s players forming a guard of honour as the Lions paid their respects to Andrews.

The death of the lock sent shockwaves through the rugby community, with tributes coming from former clubs, team-mates and officials as the sport rallied around his family and the Lions squad.

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