Bevin Fortuin Dies Aged 46: Former Springbok Fullback and Coach Passes Away

• Bevin Fortuin, former Springbok fullback and coach, has died at 46, plunging South African rugby into mourning
• Fortuin had a long and respected career in South African rugby, leaving a lasting mark both on and off the field
• He has been remembered as a passionate rugby player and a coach who left an indelible mark on South African rugby

Former Springbok fullback and Northam Rhinos head coach, Bevin Fortuin, has tragically passed away at the age of 46.

Fortuin earned two caps for the Springboks, debuting against Ireland in 2006 and featuring against Australia during the 2007 Tri-Nations series.

Reports indicate he suffered a suspected heart attack before a Rhinos training session on Thursday, 11 September 2025, in the afternoon.

Fortuin’s professional rugby journey began with the SWD Eagles, where he progressed through the youth system in 1998 and made his senior debut two years later.

Take a look at the pictures below:

He quickly became a key figure in the George-based side’s backline, spending six seasons with the Eagles before securing a move to the Free State Cheetahs in 2005.

During his four years in Bloemfontein, Fortuin also represented the Cheetahs in Super Rugby, accumulating 22 appearances between 2006 and 2008. He later returned to the Eagles for the 2009 and 2010 Currie Cup First Division seasons before leaving the union at the conclusion of 2011.

How have South Africans remembered the late Fotuin?

Fortuin has been remembered as a passionate player and coach who left a lasting impression on South African rugby.

@Da_Me_3:

"Just heard about Bevin Fortuin's passing. Sad man!!"

@Brendennel :

"Just heard the news of Bevin Fortuin passing away today. Really enjoyed him. Great smile and wicked sense of humour. Helluva guy. Gone too soon. 46 years old. RIP. This is terrible news."

@audas_vanschoor:

"Rest in peace, Bevin Fortuin 🕊Springbok 🇿🇦, Cheetah 🐆, and mentor to many. #GoneTooSoon #RIlPBEVIN."

@thegrimskeeper:

"One of the things I liked about Bevin Fortuin was that you couldn't guess what position he played by looking at him. Shame he only got the two Bok caps. But many never even get one. RIP."

Watch the video below of Fortuin during his playing days:

Recent passings of Springbok players

South African rugby has mourned several losses in recent months. Former Springbok utility back and accomplished Blitzbok and Western Province coach, Dawie Snyman, passed away on Thursday, 14 August 2025, at the age of 76 following an illness.

Tragically, former Springbok Women’s player Vuyo Maqholo died on Friday, 26 July 2025, at just 30 years old.

Earlier in the year, Cornal Hendricks, the 37-year-old former Springbok and Blitzbok, passed away in May 2025. Hendricks’ career was marked by a serious heart condition that forced him into early retirement, yet he made a remarkable return to the sport before his untimely death.

Former Springbok captain Des van Jaarsveldt dies

Briefly News previously reported that former Springbok captain Des van Jaarsveldt died on Monday, 20 July 2025, at the age of 96. SA Rugby paid homage to Van Jaarsveldt, who had been the oldest living Springbok.

He played in one test against Scotland in 1960 and scored a try in that game. He was born in Zimbabwe in 1929 and made more than 60 provincial appearances for Rhodesia.

Proofreading by Roxanne Dos Ramos, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News