Rugby star, 29, killed in avalanche with two friends while skiing in Italy

French rugby star Quentin Philippe and two of his friends have been killed in an avalanche.

The 29-year-old and his mates Hugo Neuville, 31, and Alexis Rassat, 35, went skiing in Courmayeur in Italy after their match was called off last weekend, but then tragedy struck.

One of the trio died at the scene, a second passed away in hospital shortly after being found and a third died in hospital on Monday after suffering a cardiac arrest, according to reports in France.

Annecy-le-Vieux Rugby Club wrote in a statement: “Our valiant and steadfast captain has passed away.

“This Sunday, a postponed league match, our player Quentin Philippe was caught in an avalanche near Courmayeur. He did not survive.

“We are devastated. Quentin, loyal to our colours for many years, had been instrumental in rebuilding the club.

“He was part of our remarkable run in the 2023/2024 season, which included the Alpes committee and Auvergne Rhône-Alpes league titles, as well as reaching the French championship semi-finals and securing promotion to Federale 3.

“Quentin, our strategist, always eager for stats and analysis, had been our captain since the beginning of this difficult season.

“Respectful and unifying, he knew how to motivate the Boys; he was our leader at the heart of this challenging season.

“Here in Glaisins, we are stunned.

“We will miss you terribly, but we know that up there, you will continue to watch over your friends and will certainly have your say.

“To your parents and your two brothers, we offer our sincere condolences.”