France rugby legend Christophe Dominici, dies suddenly at 48

Former France and Stade Francais winger Christophe Dominici has died aged 48, his former rugby club said on Tuesday.

‘It is with immense sadness that the Stade Francis learns of the death of Christophe Dominici,’ his former club said in a statement.

Dominici earned 67 caps for Les Bleus and played a starring role in the 1999 World Cup side which famously stunned the All Blacks in the semi-finals before losing to Australia.  

Former France and Stade Francais winger Christophe Dominici has died aged 48

Dominici made 67 appearances for France before retiring after the 2007 World Cup

Dominici, pictured cetnre, taking part in the Riviera Water Bike Challenge in Monaco

Dominici scored a stunning try in that semi-final victory over a Jonah Lomu-inspired New Zealand, a game widely recognised as the greatest in the history of the Rugby World Cup.

Les Bleus had slipped 24-10 behind at Twickenham before launching an incredible comeback, adding 33 points to just seven conceded to claim an astonishing 44-31 victory.

But they were blown away 35-12 by the Wallabies in the final at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.

Dominici also represented his country at both the 2003 and 2007 World Cups 

Irish legend Brian O’Driscoll tweeted his disbelief at the sudden passing of Dominici, writing: ‘Very sad to hear of the sudden passing of Christophe Dominici. 

‘A French player full of flair with huge success throughout his career. May he RIP.’