CASTLE, France — Josiah Reiss Quar, a medalist from the Paris Olympics, tragically lost his life in a car accident on Thursday, as confirmed by his club, Castre Rugby. He was just 30 years old.
Reports indicate that Quar was heading to practice when his vehicle collided with a train.
In a statement on their website, the team expressed their sorrow: “We are deeply saddened to share that our teammate, Josiah Reis Kua, passed away this morning in a car accident.”
“We are devastated by this shocking news. Josh had been a valued member of the club since 2021, adored by teammates and fans alike,” the statement continued.
Just two weeks prior, Quar had made an appearance as a Wing for the Top 14 teams.
He was part of the Fiji team that earned a silver medal in Rugby Sevens at last year’s Paris Olympics, playing a pivotal role in both pool play and the final against France.
Quar’s rugby journey in France began in 2015 when he joined the Top 14 champions Stade Francais. He also played for Nevers in the Second Division, where he gained notoriety during an incident in 2021 involving a red card after a playful, yet controversial moment involving a referee.
The next season, he took on a flanker role and helped propel Castor to the Top 14 final in 2022.
“He was a bright light both on and off the field. A crucial part of our Fijian community at the club, we held him in high regard. Right now, my heart goes out to his fiancé, family, and all his fellow Fijian teammates,” the statement concluded.
