Hyron Andrews, a 31-year-old South African rugby union player, died of natural causes last week while with his team in France. Andrews, who was playing for the Johannesburg-based Lions, was found dead at the team’s hotel on Île de Ré, near La Rochelle, ahead of a Champions Cup match against the French Top 14 side.

French authorities conducted an autopsy that revealed Andrews died from a tear in the aorta, the main artery of the body, which caused a significant accumulation of blood in the sac surrounding his heart. This condition, known as an aortic aneurysm rupture, is a natural medical event. The examination confirmed there was no indication of foul play. Andrews’ body remains in France pending further arrangements.

Andrews was discovered in a locked shower cubicle at the Hôtel Atalante the day before the match. South Africa’s rugby governing body described his death as an accident resulting from a fall at the team hotel, while also acknowledging the findings of the post-mortem.

Despite the sudden loss, the Lions proceeded with their scheduled fixture against La Rochelle, which they lost 31-14. The team continues its European tour and is preparing for an upcoming United Rugby Championship match against Edinburgh.

Born in Paarl, Western Cape, Andrews began his rugby career representing South Africa at the under-20 level in 2015. He started his professional career with the Sharks in Durban before moving to England in 2024, initially on a short-term loan to Sale Sharks as injury cover. His stay at Sale extended over two seasons, during which he made 45 appearances. He returned to South Africa to join the Lions ahead of the current season and participated in several United Rugby Championship games, including coming off the bench in a tour match against New Zealand in August.

Andrews, a father of two young sons, was known as a strong second-row player throughout his career. The rugby community has expressed shock and condolences following his unexpected and tragic passing.