Lions Retire Hyron Andrews' No. 5 Jersey in Tribute During Champions Cup Match in France
- The Lions took to the field against La Rochelle on 17 October 2026, just one day after Andrews passed away at the team's hotel in France
- Andrews' No. 5 jersey was placed on the pitch before kick-off as players and supporters observed a minute of silence in his memory
- La Rochelle's South African players presented a special No. 5 jersey to Lions coach Ivan van Rooyen in a show of solidarity
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The Lions paid a deeply emotional tribute to Hyron Andrews during their Investec Champions Cup fixture against Stade Rochelais in France on Saturday, 17 October 2026, retiring the second-row forward's No. 5 jersey for the remainder of their European campaign.
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Andrews died at the team's hotel in France on 16 October 2026, just one day before the scheduled fixture. The Lions chose to honour the commitment and take to the field in tribute to their fallen teammate.
Lions retire no. 5 jersey before kick-off
Before the match began at La Rochelle, Andrews' No. 5 jersey was laid on the pitch while players and supporters observed a minute of silence. Several Lions players were visibly emotional during the ceremony. Ruan Delport, who filled the second-row position in Andrews' absence, wore the No. 24 jersey instead, ensuring that the No. 5 remained unoccupied throughout the contest.
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In a gesture of solidarity, La Rochelle's South African contingent presented a commemorative No. 5 jersey to Lions head coach Ivan van Rooyen. Supporters in attendance also applauded in the fifth minute of play, a dedicated moment of recognition for the player who had worn that number throughout his Lions career.
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Lions fall to La Rochelle but win respect
The Lions showed considerable resolve despite the extraordinary emotional weight of the occasion. Henco van Wyk crossed for the opening try, followed by a second from Morne Brandon, with Chris Smith converting both scores.
La Rochelle proved too strong, however, running in five tries through Tevita Ofaz, Oscar Jegou, Davit Niniashvili, Tolu Latu and Avakuki Niusalelekitoka to claim a 31-14 victory. The Lions had openings to reduce the deficit in the second half but were undone by handling errors and missed opportunities.
At the final whistle, the home crowd rose to give the South African visitors a standing ovation, recognising the courage shown by a side competing under heartbreaking circumstances. The result represented a difficult start to the Lions' Champions Cup campaign, but the occasion will be remembered far beyond the scoreboard.
Lions coach explains decision to play after Hyron’s death
Briefly News previously reported that the Lions went ahead with their Investec Champions Cup match against La Rochelle in France shortly after confirming the death of teammate Hyron Andrews
Coach Ivan van Rooyen addressed the media before kickoff, explaining the team's decision to play in honour of the 31-year-old
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Source: Briefly News
