Saimoni Vunilagi dead at 26: Fiji rugby ace dies of suspected heatstroke after training session with club ‘devastated’

SportRugby League FIJIAN rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi has tragically died aged 26 after suffering suspected heatstroke following a training session in Japan. The Kyushu KV player, 26, was hospitalised earlier this week after developing severe symptoms following training. Fijian rugby player Saimoni Vunilagi has died aged 26 from suspected heatstroke after a training session in Japan Credit: Japan Rugby League One The second-division Japanese club confirmed Vunilagi died on Friday morning at a hospital in Fukuoka City. In a statement, Kyushu KV said: “After team practice on Monday, August 3, 2026, Saimoni displayed symptoms consistent with severe heatstroke. Sign up for the Sport newsletter Thank you! “He was transported to a medical facility for treatment, but despite the best efforts of the medical team, he sadly passed away.” The club said his death had left players and staff devastated. They added: “The players, staff, and all team associates are devastated by this sudden news.” Vunilagi had been playing in Japan for Kyushu KV, who compete in the country’s second tier. His death comes amid a period of extreme summer heat in Japan, where temperatures have soared in recent weeks. The rugby community is now mourning the loss of the Fijian, with his club expressing its deepest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones. Most read in Sport Further details surrounding the circumstances of Vunilagi’s death have not been disclosed. But the news has certainly left those involved in the sport devastated as he was a promising young star. Comment now