Rassie Erasmus and SA Rugby Pay Tribute to Late Springbok Bevin Fortuin
- Springboks head coach honoured the late fullback Bevin Fortuin with a moving post on social media
- SA Rugby president Mark Alexander praised Fortuin’s integrity, leadership, and lasting impact on the game
- Supporters flooded social media with heartfelt messages celebrating Fortuin’s life and contributions to South African rugby
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has paid tribute to the late fullback Bevin Fortuin, who passed away on Thursday, 11 September 2025.
Fortuin earned two caps for the Springboks, debuting against Ireland in 2006 and featuring against Australia during the 2007 Tri-Nations series.
His professional rugby journey began with the SWD Eagles, progressing through their youth system in 1998 and making his senior debut two years later.
Source: Getty Images
He became a key figure in the George-based side’s backline, spending six seasons with the Eagles before moving to the Free State Cheetahs in 2005.
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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, leaving the union at the end of 2011.
Erasmus, who is in New Zealand with the Springboks, posted a picture of himself and Fortuin during their playing days on X (formerly Twitter) in a moving tribute.
Fans moved by Erasmus' emotional tribute
Fans and rugby followers reacted with heartfelt messages:
@harlan1103:
“Wow... 🙏 Thanks”
@booysen_eldin15:
“Rest in Peace Bevin! You will be missed by many... 😪🕊”
@BigRick100:
“R.I.P. Bevan.”
@Eric_Kaps:
“Condolences 💐.”
@sb_gotit:
“The man of trophies 🏆.”
Watch the video below of the late Springboks fullback Bevin Fortuin.
@neilcothill:
“RIP Bevan. What a rugby player 👊🏼.”
@jacksinkyarm:
“RIP B.”
@Barney_Ems:
“Jammer 💚.”
@kenn48333:
“MHSRIP.”
Source: Getty Images
SA Rugby pays tribute to Fortuin
South African Rugby president Mark Alexander expressed his condolences on behalf of the rugby community and paid tribute to Bevin Fortuin.
Alexander described Fortuin as a man of integrity, humility and unwavering dedication to rugby and the communities it touched.
He said Fortuin was more than a gifted player and coach, noting that he had also served as a mentor and leader, inspiring many young athletes to pursue greatness while remaining grounded and humble.
According to Alexander, Fortuin’s contributions to South African rugby, both on and off the field, were defined by quiet strength and purpose. He carried the jersey with pride and exemplified humanity in everything he did.
Take a look at beautiful picture posted by Erasmus:
Alexander extended heartfelt condolences to Fortuin’s family, friends, and all who knew him, highlighting the lasting impact of his legacy. He said his memory would live on in every try scored, every young player inspired, and every community he touched.
He added that Fortuin’s name would forever be remembered in South African rugby, not only as a player but as a man who gave his heart to the game and the people it serves. Alexander concluded by wishing that Fortuin rest in peace and that his spirit continue to guide those in the rugby community.
Siya Kolisi praised for backing Women’s Boks
Briefly News previously reported that Springboks captain Siya Kolisi shared a heartfelt message with the South African women’s rugby team as they prepare for their historic Rugby World Cup quarter-final against defending champions New Zealand at Sandy Park in Exeter on Saturday, 13 September 2025.
Kolisi, who will also lead the men’s team against the All Blacks in Wellington on the same day, praised the women’s side for their achievements and offered words of encouragement.
Source: Briefly News
