Tevita and Mereani Raisuqe are on their way to France to bring home their son, fallen rugby star Josaia (Josh) Raisuqe.

The 30-year-old Castres Olympique winger and former Fiji 7s Olympic silver medallist was tragically killed in a road accident on May 8.

Reports from France indicate Josaia was struck by a train at a level railway crossing while on his way to a morning training session.

Now, his grieving parents are travelling across continents to see their son one final time before his body is flown home for burial.

They departed Nadi on Wednesday night for Singapore and departed Singapore for France last night.

“We were told that once his body is prepared for repatriation, the coffin would have to be sealed,” said his father, Tevita Raisuqe.

“They (the club) have offered to pay for our trip to France so we can see him one last time, face to face. We are thankful for that.

“We would want to bury him here, in his village at Lutu, Wainibuka, where he was raised, where he belongs.”

An emotional grieving mother, Mereani Raisuqe said it would be an emotional journey to France.

“It is painful. So, so painful to lose a son thousands of miles away from home and it will be a very sad journey to France.”

Assisting in their travel arrangements was Assistant Minister for Health Penioni Ravunawa, who was on his way to the World Health Summit in Geneva.

He helped ensure the couple secured their French visas in Singapore last night before continuing their journey to France.

The news of Raisuqe’s death has rocked both the Fijian rugby community and his adopted rugby family in France.

In a public statement, Castres Olympique announced the postponement of their upcoming match against ASM Clermont as a mark of respect.

“The entire CO (Castres Olympique) family is shaken by this terrible news,” the statement read.

“Josh had been part of the club since 2021. He was a wonderful teammate, very much appreciated by all, and by the Castres supporters who had adopted him. We extend our sincere condolences and our thoughts to his family and loved ones.”

Club president Pierre-Yves Revol described him as more than a player, a beacon of light and a proud ambassador of Fiji abroad.

“He was a radiant young man on and off the pitch,” Revol said. “He was a pillar of the Fijian community at our club.”

Josaia made seven appearances for Castres this season, his final game played just days before the tragic accident.

Known for his power, pace, and infectious smile, he carried the spirit of Fiji onto the field every time he played.

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