Sports Desk Reporter
Luqobo “Bibo” Makwedini is being remembered after his sudden death in France at the age of 20. The South African Under 18 prop had recently returned to France after spending five weeks with his family in South Africa.
His French club, AS Béziers Hérault, confirmed his death on Friday. The club described him as a valued member of the team and extended its condolences to his family, friends, teammates and everyone affected by his passing.
According to reports from France, Makwedini collapsed after a training session. He was taken to hospital but could not be saved. The cause of his death has not been officially confirmed.
The news has left his family devastated.
Makwedini’s uncle, Mphumzi Zuzile, told eNCA the family was struggling to process what had happened.
“He had just returned to France after spending time with us at home. We are struggling to accept what has happened,” he said.
The family is now working with the club and the relevant authorities to make arrangements to bring his body back to South Africa.
Born in Komga in the Eastern Cape, Makwedini earned national recognition while attending Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town.
His performances at school and provincial level led to South Africa Under 18 selection before he signed a three-year contract with AS Béziers Hérault. He had been preparing for the club’s 2026/27 Pro D2 campaign.
Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie described Makwedini’s death as a tragic loss for South African rugby.
“Luqobo’s journey speaks to the very best of what South African sport can produce,” McKenzie said.
He said Makwedini had represented South Africa with distinction and extended his condolences to the player’s family, friends, teammates, Wynberg Boys’ High School, AS Béziers Hérault and the wider rugby community.
Players, clubs and supporters have paid tribute to Makwedini, remembering him as a talented young prop with a bright future in the game.