Fiji rugby player Josaia Raisuqe, an Olympic silver medallist at the Paris Games, has died at the age of 30 after a tragic accident. While the exact circumstances of Raisuqe's death are still unconfirmed, it is reported that he was involved in a road accident at a level crossing on Thursday morning when his car was struck by a train shortly before he was due to attend training.
Following the news of his passing, Raisuqe's Castres team-mates were excused from training, and their Top 14 match against Clermont Auvergne is likely to be postponed. In a statement, Castres expressed their sorrow, saying: "It is with heavy hearts that we learned of the death this morning of our player Josaia Raisuqe in a road accident.
"The entire CO family is devastated by this terrible news. Josh had been a member of the club since 2021. He was a wonderful teammate, much loved by everyone, including the Castres supporters who had embraced him."
The club offered its sincere condolences and thoughts to Raisuqe's family and loved ones.
Xavier Pemeja, Raisuqe's former coach, was among those who paid tribute to the former Fiji sevens star, who won silver alongside his teammates at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Pemeja remembered Raisuqe fondly, saying: "It's incredibly violent. Josaia was an absolutely adorable boy. He was always the first in training, whether it was raining, windy, or snowing. When on the field, he displayed extraordinary bursts of talent.
"Upon his arrival at the club, he significantly enhanced our performance. His opponents held him in high regard; he consistently scored tries."
Following the news of Raisuqe's tragic death, Toulouse, the leaders of the Top 14, also paid tribute to him on social media. Their statement read: "Toulouse were shocked to learn of the death of Josaia Raisuqe this morning in a road accident.
"The entire club wishes to express its support and sincere condolences to his family, loved ones and his club, Castres Olympique."