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Fiji rugby star Josaia Raisuqe dies aged 30

RIP illustration. PHOTO/Vector

Fiji Sevens international and Castres Olympique player Josaia Raisuqe has died at the age of 30 following a road accident on his way to training, the club has confirmed.

Raisuqe was involved in a collision with a train at a level crossing on the morning of May 8.

Born and raised in Fiji, Raisuqe first earned a call-up to the Fiji Sevens squad in 2015 after being spotted by then-head coach Ben Ryan.

His impressive performances on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit led to a move to Top 14 side Stade Français. He spent two years in Paris before being released for ‘gross misconduct.’

He later revived his career at USON Nevers under coach Xavier Péméja, staying for four years before joining Castres in 2021. Versatile across both the backs and forwards, Raisuqe had recently agreed to join Brive ahead of the 2025/26 season.

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Castres Olympique released a statement 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 team-mate, much loved by everyone, including the Castres supporters who had embraced him. We extend our sincere condolences and thoughts to his family and loved ones.”

Castres president Pierre-Yves Revol paid tribute, saying:

“We are in shock following the sudden death of Josaia. He was a radiant boy on and off the field, a pillar of the Fijian community we have at the club and to which we are very attached.”

Raisuqe also represented Fiji at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games, helping the team secure a silver medal after finishing runners-up to hosts France in the final.

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