The rugby world has united in grief following the tragic death of Lions forward Hyron Andrews, with emotional scenes at Kingsholm and tributes pouring in from across the sport.

A moment of silence was observed ahead of Gloucester's Champions Cup clash with Bordeaux-Bègles on Friday evening.

Players and supporters stood together as a photograph of Andrews appeared on the stadium's big screen.

The moving tribute was captured by Premier Sports, just hours after news of the 31-year-old's death emerged.

Andrews was found unresponsive at his team's hotel in France on Friday morning, ahead of the Lions' Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle.

Emergency services attended, but attempts to save him were unsuccessful.

Lions make emotional decision

Despite the devastating news, the Lions have decided to fulfil Saturday's Champions Cup fixture against La Rochelle in honour of their teammate.

Andrews had only recently joined the Johannesburg-based club after returning to South Africa from Sale Sharks.

Lions chief executive Rudolf Straeuli paid tribute to a player who had already become a valued member of the squad.

The decision to play comes during an incredibly difficult period for Andrews' family, friends and teammates.

La Rochelle head coach Ronan O'Gara also reportedly visited the Lions' hotel to offer his condolences.

It was a touching gesture from the former Ireland international ahead of what will be an emotional European encounter.

Alex Sanderson remembers former Sale Sharks star

Sale Sharks director of rugby Alex Sanderson was among those to pay tribute to Andrews.

The South African lock had spent time at the Premiership club before returning home earlier this year.

Sanderson remembered a popular teammate with a dry sense of humour who embraced life in Manchester with his family.

The club also expressed its sadness at the news, remembering Andrews as a much-loved member of their squad.

Sale are set to honour their former player during Saturday's Champions Cup fixture against Glasgow Warriors.

'Ice' – Sharks remember one of their own

One of the most touching tributes came from Andrews' former South African club, the Sharks.

He spent a decade in Durban between 2014 and 2024, becoming a familiar face to supporters and teammates.

Affectionately known as 'Ice', Andrews arrived at the club as a young player and developed into an established professional.

But it was his life away from rugby that featured most prominently in the club's tribute.

Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans said:

"Hyron arrived here as a young man and left as a proud husband and a father."

Andrews was married to his wife Maighlin, and the couple had two young sons, Hendrix and Emerson.

Bryans also delivered a message that summed up the affection felt towards the former Sharks forward.

"Hyron will forever remain one of us."

The Sharks' official tribute reflected on the lasting impression Andrews had made during his years at the club.

Springboks captain Siya Kolisi posted simply: "RIP my brother" 

Tributes pour in from across rugby

Messages of sympathy have continued to arrive from clubs and rugby organisations around the world.

Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith offered his condolences to Andrews' family and teammates.

"On behalf of everyone at Glasgow Warriors, I would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Lions, Hyron's family, friends and teammates following this tragic loss."

Edinburgh Rugby, the Stormers and several Irish provinces have also paid tribute.

South African Rugby president Mark Alexander expressed his sympathy to Andrews' wife, family and the Lions squad.

In an official statement, Alexander reflected on Andrews' contribution to the sport and the impact he had made on those around him.

The IRFU, Leinster, Munster and Ulster have also shared messages of condolence.

The news carries particular poignancy for Munster supporters, coming exactly ten years after former Ireland captain Anthony Foley died in Paris on 16 October 2016.

European rugby remembers Hyron Andrews

Moments of silence are planned across Champions Cup and Challenge Cup fixtures this weekend.

Supporters and players will have the opportunity to remember Andrews and show their support for those closest to him.

For the Lions, Saturday's match against La Rochelle will carry a significance far beyond the result.

And for the clubs, coaches and teammates who knew him, Andrews will be remembered for much more than his performances on the pitch.

Our thoughts remain with his wife Maighlin, their two sons, his family, friends and everyone affected by his passing.