Teen rugby player dies from injury during match
French rugby is mourning the loss of 15-year-old Nicolas Haddad, who died during a match on Corsica. He was playing for the Saint-Maximin-Brignoles-Val d’Issole team against Bastia when he suffered a serious injury. Witnesses say Nicolas was tackled and accidentally hit in the head by an opponent's knee. He collapsed on the field and went into cardiac arrest. Despite being rushed to a hospital, he did not survive. The club released a statement expressing deep sorrow over his death. They extended their condolences to his family and thanked local rugby organizations for their support during this difficult time. Rugby Club Toulonnais also shared their heartbreak, calling it an "absolute tragedy." Patrice Blachère, the CEO of Rugby Club Toulonnais, remembered Nicolas as a passionate player who was excited to join their team. He emphasized the importance of honoring the young athlete's memory. In response to the tragedy, the French Rugby League announced that a minute of silence will be held across fields in the region this weekend. Psychological support will be offered to players upon their return to Toulon.