Former Scotland rugby star Greig Oliver has tragically passed away following a paragliding accident in South Africa.
The incident occurred in Cape Town, where Oliver was present to support his son participating in the Under 20 Rugby World Cup.
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Reports indicate that two paragliders collided during a tandem flight.
One of the pilots managed to deploy a parachute and land safely in the sea, while Oliver unfortunately landed on rocks nearby.
Despite the efforts of rescue swimmers from the National Sea Rescue Institute and paramedics, CPR was unsuccessful in reviving the former rugby player.
The Institute released a statement expressing their condolences and confirming his passing.
The pilot and passenger of the other tandem flight landed without injury, while Oliver’s pilot received treatment for minor injuries.
The Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) paid tribute to Oliver, who had been working as a coach for Munster Rugby in Ireland.
Kevin Potts, Chief Executive of the IRFU, extended his warm sympathies to the Oliver family and described Greig as a valued staff member who played a significant role in developing young players.
World Rugby also expressed deep sadness over Oliver’s death and announced a minute’s silence would be observed in his memory before the next round of U20 World Cup matches.
This includes the game between Ireland and Fiji, where Oliver’s son Jack is part of the Irish squad.
“On behalf of the Irish rugby community, I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the Oliver family at this extremely sad time,” Potts said.
“Greig was a hugely popular member of staff and played a key role in the development of many young players during his time at Munster Rugby.
“Today’s news is an unspeakable tragedy and our thoughts are with Greig’s wife Fiona, children Jack and Ciara, and his many friends, family and colleagues. May he rest in peace.”
Sir Bill Beaumont, Chairman of World Rugby, offered his condolences to the Oliver family, the Ireland U20 squad, and the entire Irish rugby community.
He emphasized that all players at the tournament stand in solidarity with Jack and his teammates. The tragic loss of Greig Oliver has left the rugby world mourning and united in grief.
The community sends its thoughts and support to the Oliver family during this difficult time, and they will be remembered with a moment of silence in upcoming matches.
In his words:
“On behalf of World Rugby and the global rugby family, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the Oliver family, the Ireland U20 squad and the Irish rugby community at this difficult time.
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“All the players at the World Rugby U20 Championship stand in solidarity with Jack, his team-mates and the Oliver family and a moment’s silence will be observed across all of Tuesday’s matches as a mark of respect.
“We have also offered our full support to the Ireland team in South Africa.”
