French Rugby Star Killed in Avalanche While Skiing in Italy

A French rugby standout was killed by an avalanche while skiing in Italy last weekend, an accident which also claimed the lives of two of his friends.

Quentin Philippe, 29, was skiing in Courmayeur in Italy last weekend when tragedy struck. Philippe, along with Hugo Neuville, 31, and Alexis Rassat, 35, were killed by an avalanche in the Vesses Canal, according to reports.

Philippe had elected to venture on the mountain after his team's rugby match was postponed that day.

More details emerge

French outlet Le Dauphine reported that one of the men was found dead at the scene, with another dying at the hospital shortly after being recovered.

The third member of the trio passed away in hospital Monday, shortly after suffering a cardiac arrest.

Philippe's club weighs in

Philippe served as captain of Annecy-le-Vieux Rugby Club, which paid tribute to his memory in a heartfelt statement.

"Our valiant and steadfast captain has passed away," the statement began. "This Sunday, a postponed league match, our player Quentin Philippe was caught in an avalanche near Courmayeur. He did not survive."

The club went on to laud Philippe for his work on the field.

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

Lastly, a "stunned" Annecy-le-Vieux Rugby Club offered condolences to Philippe's family.

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