Kiev Lua Soana’i Oeti: Tragedy As Star Player Passes Away After a Rugby Match
- Tragedy struck after star player, Kiev Lua Soana’i Oeti, died at 34-year-old after a rugby match in Australia
- The rugby player left behind his wife, Rachel, and their young family, while people continued to show them support
- Soana’i Oeti's death sparked loads of tributes from rugby lovers and others on social media, with his club leading the way
The rugby community are mourning the death of Kiev Lua Soana’i Oeti, who passed away at the age of 34 after a rugby match on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Australia.
Oeti collapsed after experiencing a serious medical emergency in the parking area beside Jamison Oval, shortly after representing Wests Rugby club in third and fourth grade fixtures against Queanbeyan.
Source: Instagram
The news about the rugby star's passing sent shockwaves through the Australian rugby community, with widespread support pouring in for his wife Rachel, their young family, and everyone connected to his club.
In related news, the rugby community recently lost Corey Graham, who passed away alongside two others in a road accident and former player Russell Nelson, who died in South Africa.
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Wests Rugby Club announces Oeti's passing
Wests Rugby Club took to their official page on Instagram to announce the death of Oeti, and narrated the situation surrounding his passing.
"It is with great sadness that Wests Rugby announce the tragic loss of one of our Wests players. Last weekend, following his Fourth Grade and Third Grade appearances, Lua Soana’i suffered a medical episode and sadly passed away at the age of just 34," the rugby club's statement reads.
"Lua has played for the Club since 2024, and he was an integral player in our 2025 Third Grade premiership team. A powerful backrower, Lua’s charges onto the ball were legendary, inspiring his teammates and putting fear into the opposition. His defence was unmatched, with shoulders of cement knocking the wind out of unfortunate opponents. Lua’s coaches and teammates will miss him terribly - as a friend, teammate and Wests family member."
Rugby fans pay tribute to Oeti
Rugby lovers all around the globe joined Wests Rugby Club in paying tributes to Oeti after his passing on social media.
Source: Getty Images
Beatrice Utumapu shared:
We love and miss you, cuz Kiev Lua Soana'i Oeti talofae le galo oe le tuagane pele Lua🕊️💔😭😭😭😭We love you so much 😭😭😭😭😭😭."
Fiona Schuster said:
"Oh my gosh, this is so sad. l know him and his family😢 Rachel Soana'i, so sorry sis for the loss of your dear husband. Prayers and thoughts are with you and the kids, Oeti/Soana’i family. Rest in peace, Lua🙏❤️"
Jacqui Singh wrote:
"Very sad news x condolences to all his family and friends x."
Maxine Chavasse commented:
"Very sad news. deepest condolences to all his family and friends x."
Wests Jnr Rugby added:
"Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with Lua’s family, friends, and everyone @westsrugbyclub during this incredibly difficult time."
Rugby legend dies in fatal tractor rollover
Briefly News earlier reported that a popular rugby star passed away after being involved in a tragic tractor accident.
He died at the age of 50 and was rated among the rugby community, having represented top clubs during his career.
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Source: Briefly News
