South African rugby has been plunged into mourning following the death of promising young prop Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini, who died in France on Friday after collapsing during a training session. He was 20 years old.

The former South Africa Under-18 international suffered a suspected cardiac arrest during a morning training session with French Pro D2 club AS Béziers Hérault at the Stade de la Gayonne on 10 July. He was rushed to hospital where he died several hours later.

The club confirmed the tragedy in an official statement on Friday evening, expressing profound sadness at the loss of the young tighthead prop who had joined their academy ahead of the 2025-26 season.

“It is with immense sadness that AS Béziers Hérault announces the passing of Luqobo Makwedini,” the club said in a statement.

Former Springbok captain Bob Skinstad, who serves as the club’s president, led the tributes to the young player.

“Luqobo quickly became a valued member of the Red and Blue family, where his commitment, kindness and personal qualities deeply impressed everyone at the club,” Skinstad said.

Makwedini, who was born in Komga in the Eastern Cape, attended Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town where he developed his rugby skills before representing South Africa at Under-18 level.

He had joined the French club’s training centre during the off-season and was expected to integrate into the professional squad for the upcoming season.

His family has indicated they suspect cardiac arrest as the cause of death, though the exact cause has not been officially confirmed.

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