Former SA Under-18 rugby player Luqobo Makwedini dies at 20

The South African rugby community is mourning the death of former SA Under-18 prop Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini, who died on Friday after collapsing during a training session with French club AS Béziers. He was 20.

Makwedini reportedly became unwell following the club’s morning training session at Stade de la Gayonne in Béziers before being rushed to hospital, where he died a few hours later. While French media have reported that he is believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest, the cause of death has not yet been officially confirmed.

The Cape Town-born tighthead prop was a product of Wynberg Boys’ High School, where he established himself as one of the country’s brightest front-row prospects. His performances earned him South African Under-18 honours before he secured a move to France.

Makwedini joined the AS Béziers academy ahead of the 2025/26 season and was widely regarded as a rising talent. He had been expected to step up to the club’s senior squad for the upcoming Pro D2 campaign but did not get the opportunity to make his first-team debut.

In a statement released on Friday evening, the French club confirmed his passing and paid tribute to the young South African.

Club president and former Springbok captain Bob Skinstad said Makwedini had quickly become a valued member of the Béziers family.

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

The club extended its condolences to Makwedini’s family, friends and teammates, while asking for privacy as those closest to him grieve.

Tributes also poured in from across the rugby world, with French players’ union Provale and supporters’ groups expressing their condolences to his family, teammates and everyone connected to the club.

Makwedini’s sudden death has sent shockwaves through South African rugby, where he was remembered as a talented young player whose career appeared to be on the rise.

His death comes just as he was preparing for what many believed would be his breakthrough season in professional rugby.