SA Rugby Sends Condolences After French Rugby Star ‘lost’ At Sea
Tragic Loss: Young Rugby Star Medhi Narjissi Swept Out to Sea During Training
In a heartbreaking incident, 17-year-old Medhi Narjissi, a rising rugby talent and member of France’s U18 squad, was swept out to sea by strong rip currents at Diaz Beach near the Cape of Good Hope on Wednesday.
Narjissi, the son of well-known French hooker Djalil Narjissi, was preparing for the upcoming U18 International Series in Cape Town, where his team was set to face South Africa, England, and Georgia.
The tragedy occurred while Medhi was on an outing with his team. Despite immediate efforts by emergency services, including boats and helicopters, the search and rescue operation continued throughout Wednesday with no success.
Mark Alexander, president of the South African Rugby Union, expressed deep condolences: “Our hearts go out to Medhi’s family and the French rugby community.
The entire rugby world mourns this devastating loss.”
The French Rugby Federation confirmed that Medhi was swept away by a wave around 4 p.m. while swimming with his teammates.
They are providing support to Medhi’s family and the U18 team, with a psychological unit set up on-site.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) has stated that the search will continue, although no signs of Medhi have been found.
The U18 International Series, scheduled to take place in the Western Cape, may be impacted, but no decisions have been made yet.
This tragic event has left the rugby community in deep sorrow, with thoughts and prayers extended to Medhi’s family and teammates during this incredibly difficult time.
