Nicolas Haddad: French rugby player, 15, dies after suffering blow to the head during match

French rugby player Nicolas Haddad, who was playing for Saint-Maximin-Brignoles-Val d’Issole (RSMXV) against Bastia in Corsica on Saturday, sustained a blow to the head while making a tackle. As a result of the impact, Haddad collapsed on the field and went into cardiac arrest. He was rushed to hospital but never regained consciousness.

The player was dual-registered with RSMXV and Top 14 side Toulon, who released a statement on Wednesday (19 March) paying tribute to the young player. The statement read: “It is with infinite sadness that we inform you of the death of Nicolas Haddad, a child of the RSMXV from the M6 category and who played as cadets in the agreement of our three clubs and at the RCT.

“All our prayers go to the family who wishes to preserve their intimacy. Our clubs thank the leaders of Bastia XV, the South Rugby League, the Corsican Rugby League and the FFR for supporting parents and the team.” Toulon are set to remember Haddad ahead of their Top 14 fixture against Perpignan this weekend, displaying a photo of him on the big screen, while all matches in Corsica will also be preceded by a minute’s silence.

The teenager joined the club at the age of six, with Toulon co-president Patrice Blachere paying tribute. He said: “Rugby is in mourning. Nicolas Haddad has left us. All our thoughts go to his wonderful family and all those who supported them. He loved rugby, and it is terrible to lose such a passionate young athlete.”