Lions player found dead at team hotel just hours before Champions Cup match against La Rochelle

A member of the Lions rugby team has been found dead ahead of the South African club's Champions Cup match against La Rochelle.

Devastating reports from France have stated that the player was found unconscious in his shower cubicle after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest.

The player, who remains unnamed, was staying in the team hotel ahead of the Lions facing La Rochelle at Stade Marcel Deflandre on Saturday afternoon.

Emergency services attended the Atalante-Relais Thalasso hotel on the Île de Ré but, as per France Info, the Lions player, who is in his 30s, could not be revived.

Management of the Hotel confirmed that a psychological support unit has been set up at the establishment for all Lions' players and the club staff, who were informed before the news broke.

Meanwhile Champions Cup organisers, European Professional Club Rugby, have confirmed the player's family have been informed.

The Lions were preparing to make their debut in the top European competition, having previously played in the European Challenge Cup competition, following a big 57-15 loss to South African rivals Bulls on Saturday.

The news comes on the 10th anniversary of the death of the Munster coach Anthony Foley, who passed in his sleep in the team's hotel in Paris ahead of a European match against Racing 92.

It was later revealed that Foley had died after a heart condition led to a fluid build up in his lungs.

More to follow....