**Fijian Rugby Star Josaia Raisuqe Dies in Tragic Accident at Age 30**
The international rugby community is reeling after the tragic passing of Fijian winger Josaia Raisuqe, who was killed in a road accident in France at the age of just 30. The devastating incident occurred on Thursday morning, reportedly as Raisuqe was travelling to training for his club, Castres Olympique.
According to initial reports from France, Raisuqe’s car was struck by a train at a level crossing near Saix, a town close to Castres in the south of France. While official details are still being gathered, French sports outlet Midi Olympique stated that the impact was fatal and immediate, leaving the rugby world in shock and mourning.
Further adding to the trauma, it is understood that several of Raisuqe’s teammates were present at the scene and witnessed the incident unfold. As news of the collision spread, Castres Olympique swiftly cancelled all training for the day, and there has been speculation that their upcoming match against Clermont, originally scheduled for Saturday afternoon, will be postponed as players and staff process the loss.
Raisuqe, whose professional journey saw him play for a number of French clubs—including Stade Francais and Nevers before his tenure at Castres—was well-known for his athleticism and try-scoring prowess. His move to Brive for the next Pro D2 season had recently been confirmed, marking another chapter in a successful career that started in his homeland of Fiji.
Notably, Raisuqe’s influence extended well beyond club rugby. The winger made 21 appearances for the Fiji national Sevens team, playing a crucial role in their silver-medal campaign at the Paris Olympics in 2024. His dynamic play style and relentless determination made him a feared opponent and a cherished teammate wherever he went.
In response to the tragedy, rugby organisations and clubs across France have moved swiftly to pay tribute. Castres Olympique altered their club logo to black and white on social media, reflecting a sombre mood. Toulouse released a statement expressing “deep shock” at the news, offering condolences and support to Raisuqe’s family and the wider Castres community. Toulon shared similar sentiments, extending their thoughts to Raisuqe’s friends, family, and supporters.
Rugby Club Vannes, another French side, described their reaction as one of “horror,” joining others in expressing sympathy and solidarity. “We would like to express our support and our most sincere condolences to his family, his loved ones, his teammates and to the entire Castres Olympique club,” the statement read.
Xavier Péméja, Raisuqe’s former coach at Nevers, provided a moving tribute, highlighting the winger’s dedication and character. “Josaia was an absolutely adorable boy,” he commented. “He was always the first at training, whether it was raining, windy, or snowing. On the pitch, he produced incredible moments, and his impact on the team was immense.”
The shock and sorrow from Raisuqe’s death have resonated internationally, further highlighting the bonds and camaraderie that underpin the sport of rugby. While the full details of the accident continue to emerge, his loss is already being felt deeply from Fiji to France and beyond.
As the rugby world takes time to grieve, many will remember Josaia Raisuqe not only for his contributions on the field but also for the warmth and spirit he brought to his teammates, coaches, and fans throughout a remarkable career that was tragically cut short.