Zuko Komisa

- Promising South African rugby prop Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini has passed away at the age of 20 after collapsing during a training session with French club AS Béziers Hérault.
- Early reports point to a suspected cardiac arrest triggered by heatstroke as a severe summer heatwave sweeps across Europe.
- Devastated relatives have begun engaging with French club officials to bring the young athlete’s body back home to South Africa.
The South African rugby community is in mourning following the tragic death of 20-year-old prop Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini, who collapsed and died during a training session with French Pro D2 club AS Béziers Hérault.
The highly regarded front-rower, who only celebrated his landmark birthday on 30 June, fell ill at the end of a morning practice at the Stade de la Gayonne before suffering a suspected cardiac arrest.
Makwedini’s family has since confirmed that they believe his collapse was a result of severe heatstroke, as a punishing summer heatwave continues to grip much of mainland Europe.
Family spokesperson Mphumzi Zuzile confirmed that the family is now actively working alongside Béziers club officials to coordinate the repatriation process and bring the young star’s body back to South Africa.
SA Rugby President Mark Alexander led the tributes for the former SA Schools and Under-18 “A” star, urging coaches and players overseas to take extreme caution during the current extreme weather.
Highlighting the immense promise of the young tighthead, who had been tipped for senior selection in France next season, Alexander expressed his heartbreak:
“This tragedy reminds us of the importance of vigilance during the current European heat wave, where coaches and players must take extra care to safeguard health and well-being. Bibo’s spirit and contribution will remain an enduring part of our rugby family.”
Béziers president and former Springbok captain Bob Skinstad also paid tribute to the academy player, noting that Makwedini’s character and dedication had left a profound mark on the squad in his short time with the club.
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