Former Springbok rugby player and Northam Rhinos head coach Bevin Fortuin died on Thursday afternoon, 11 September 2025.
Bevin Fortuin dies: What’s the cause of death?
The 46-year-old reportedly suffered a suspected heart attack shortly before a training session with the Rhinos, his Limpopo-based club confirmed.
“With heavy hearts, we share the sad news of the passing of our beloved head coach, Bevin Fortuin,” the Northam Rhinos said in a statement.
The club, which recently won the 2025 Castle Lager SA Super League, praised Fortuin’s leadership on and off the field and extended condolences to his wife, young son, and family.
According to early reports, Fortuin collapsed before a scheduled practice session. Emergency efforts could not save him, and he was later confirmed dead. While the exact medical details have not yet been confirmed, his passing has been described as the result of a suspected heart attack.
Playing career
Fortuin began his rugby journey with the SWD Eagles, representing them at youth level before making his senior debut in 2000.
He played six seasons for the team before moving to the Free State Cheetahs in 2005, where he also represented the Cheetahs in Super Rugby, making 22 appearances between 2006 and 2008.
He returned to the SWD Eagles in 2009 and played until 2010.
In 2011, he briefly considered a political career, announcing his candidacy for the Democratic Alliance in the municipal elections.
Springbok career
Fortuin earned two international caps for South Africa.
He made his debut against Ireland in 2006 and later played in the 2007 Tri Nations against Australia.
He is listed as Springbok number 780.
Coaching career
After retiring from professional rugby, Fortuin moved into coaching.
He began at club side Blanco, first as a player and later as head coach, leading them to the 2012 National Club Championships.
He then joined the SWD Eagles as a coach, eventually becoming head coach in 2013.
In 2015, he joined the coaching staff of the Blue Bulls in Pretoria before later moving to the Northam Rhinos, where he achieved success by leading them to a national championship in 2025.
Tributes and legacy
The Northam Rhinos described him as a man whose “immense contributions, both on and off the field, leave an immeasurable legacy.”
“Our community feels his loss deeply, but heaven is richer for his presence. We salute you, Bevin Fortuin, for the profound impact you made on rugby and our community,” they added.
Fortuin is remembered as a versatile fullback, a determined coach, and a figure who inspired young players in both professional and grassroots rugby.