Fijian Olympic Rugby Medalist Josaia Raisuqe Dies in France Train Collision

Josaia Raisuqe, a 30-year-old Fijian rugby player and Olympic silver medalist in rugby sevens at the 2024 Paris Olympics, tragically died after his car was struck by a train near Castres, France, while he was on his way to training. Raisuqe had played for several French clubs, including Stade Français, Nevers, and Castres Olympique, where he had been a valued teammate since 2021, and was set to join Brive for the next season. Castres and the wider rugby community expressed deep sorrow, with the club describing him as a radiant presence and a key figure in the Fijian community. In response to his death, the French National Rugby League postponed the upcoming Top 14 match between Castres and Clermont Auvergne and announced tributes across matches. Raisuqe had a complex history, including a 2017 dismissal from Stade Français following a sexual assault conviction. His passing has left teammates, fans, and officials mourning the loss of a talented and well-loved player.