Fijian rugby star Josaia Raisuqe dies after train collision in France

Olympic silver medallist Josaia Raisuqe killed in car-train crash en route to training with Castres.

Castres Olympique’s Josaia Raisuqe in action during the EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16 match at Kingsholm Stadium in Gloucester, on April 5, 2024. Photo by David Davies/PA Images

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

The rugby world is mourning the sudden death of Fijian wing Josaia Raisuqe, who died at age 30 after a train collided with his car at a level crossing in southern France. Raisuqe, who was part of Fiji’s Olympic silver medal-winning rugby sevens squad in Paris last year, was on his way to training with Top 14 club Castres when the accident occurred on Thursday.

French emergency services responded quickly to the scene near the city of Castres, where the incident took place. Firefighters reported that no injuries were sustained by the train’s passengers, conductor, or driver, although many were left deeply shaken by the crash.

Castres pays tribute to beloved Fijian winger

Raisuqe’s death has left Castres Olympique in mourning. The club released a statement saying, “Castres Olympique is grieving. He was a wonderful team-mate, appreciated by everyone, and Castres’ supporters who had taken him to their hearts.”

The emotional message was echoed by Castres owner Pierre-Yves Revol, who spoke warmly about Raisuqe's character and presence. “He was a shining light of a boy on and off the pitch,” Revol said. “He was a pillar of the Fijian community which we have at the club—there are three other Fijians—and to whom we are very attached.”

Revol also reflected on Raisuqe’s faith and how it may bring strength to his teammates in this dark moment. “It is difficult also at this time not to evoke the faith of all the players and of Josaia. That, aside from the grief, will help them in this very difficult time for everyone.”

From Olympic glory to French club career

Josaia Raisuqe had been a key figure in Fijian rugby and was best known internationally for helping his country secure a silver medal at the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. His performance in the sevens format of the sport brought him acclaim at home and abroad.

After his Olympic success, Raisuqe continued his professional career in France’s prestigious Top 14 league. This season, he made seven appearances for Castres, with his last game taking place on April 27 in a match that saw his team suffer a heavy 52-6 defeat to Toulouse.

Raisuqe’s time in French rugby began earlier with Stade Français, one of the country’s most storied clubs. However, his stint there ended abruptly in 2017 when he was dismissed for gross misconduct. Despite that setback, Raisuqe managed to revive his career, later playing for Nevers in the Pro D2 and eventually joining Castres.

He had already signed a contract to play for Brive, a second-tier French side, for the next two seasons, signaling his intent to continue contributing to the game at a high level.

A loss felt across the rugby community

News of Josaia Raisuqe's death sent shockwaves throughout the rugby community, both in France and internationally. The French National Rugby League (LNR) expressed their “extreme sadness” and confirmed that a tribute would be paid to Raisuqe at all Top 14 and Pro D2 matches this weekend.

In recognition of the tragedy, Castres canceled all team activities for the day, including training, and postponed their upcoming fixture against Clermont, which had been scheduled for Saturday. The LNR supported the decision and emphasized the importance of giving the team time to grieve.

Teammates and fans alike took to social media to express their sorrow and honor Raisuqe’s memory. Messages poured in from across the rugby world, highlighting not only his athletic talents but also his energy, kindness, and the positive influence he had on those around him.

From Fiji to France: a journey of talent and redemption

Born in Fiji, Josaia Raisuqe’s path to professional rugby began in the vibrant and competitive environment of Pacific Island rugby. His natural athleticism and raw power made him a standout from an early age. Like many of his compatriots, Raisuqe pursued opportunities abroad, eventually securing a contract in France—a common route for Fijian players seeking to advance their careers and support their families.

Though his career had its turbulent moments, Raisuqe's ability to recover and re-establish himself in France showed both resilience and growth. His move from Stade Français to Nevers, and then to Castres, charted a narrative of redemption—one that saw him regain the trust of teammates and fans alike.

Off the field, Raisuqe was known for his warmth and charisma. Within the Castres squad, he was especially close with fellow Fijian players, forming a tight-knit community within the club. His death now leaves a gap that goes far beyond the sporting realm.

A broader reminder of road safety and athlete vulnerability

Raisuqe's tragic accident also serves as a sobering reminder of the vulnerability athletes face outside the limelight. The fatal collision occurred at a level crossing—a site of numerous past incidents in both France and across Europe. Authorities have not yet released full details of the crash, but investigations are expected to continue.

While railway safety measures exist across the country, accidents at level crossings remain a concern for public officials. The French Ministry of Transport has previously announced upgrades to certain crossings to prevent such tragedies, although implementation has been slow in some regions.

For athletes like Raisuqe, whose schedules involve regular travel to training grounds and stadiums, the risks of road and rail incidents remain an unfortunate part of life off the pitch.

Rugby world to honor a fallen player

As the weekend approaches, the Top 14 and Pro D2 leagues will pause to reflect on the life and legacy of Josaia Raisuqe. Stadiums across France are expected to hold moments of silence, and players will likely wear black armbands in tribute to their fallen peer.

For Fiji, the loss of Raisuqe hits hard. As a country deeply passionate about rugby, the nation will remember one of its own who made it to the highest level of the sport and proudly wore the national colors on the Olympic stage.

His career may have been cut short, but his story—marked by triumph, adversity, and an enduring spirit—will continue to inspire young athletes from Fiji and beyond.