Munster Confirm The Tragic News That Anthony Foley Has Passed Away

Munster have, in the last few moments, confirmed the tragic news that head coach Anthony Foley has passed away at the age of 42.

It is with great sadness that we bid farewell to our coach, former captain, colleague and friend today, rest in peace Anthony Foley.

— Munster Rugby (@Munsterrugby) October 16, 2016

The IRFU have posted this statement on their website:

It is with deep regret that the Irish Rugby Football Union and Munster Rugby must advise of the passing overnight of Munster Rugby head coach Anthony Foley, at the team hotel in Paris.

Munster Rugby management are liaising directly with Anthony's family and will provide them with any assistance and support required.

Thr IRFU and Munster Rugby pass on our deepest sympathies to all of Anthony's family and friends and ask for privacy for the family at this sad time.

As a mark of respect to Anthony and his family and and to support players, management and staff, Muster Rugby have requested that today's match against Racing 92 be rescheduled.

Munster Rugby thank Racing 92, EPCR, broadcasters and partners, and the many fans who travelled to Paris for their understanding and support at this time.

Foley is regarded as one of Munster's finest ever players. He made 202 appearances for Munster between 1995 and 2008, and was appointed captain in 2005, and in his first season, led the province to a first Heineken Cup. He retired at the end of the 2007/08 season, another Heineken Cup-winning season.

Foley made 62 international appearances, and made his debut against England in a Five Nations match in 1995. His final appearance for Ireland came against Wales in 2005.

Upon retirement, Foley went into the coaching set-up at Munster, serving as Munster 'A' coach from 2009 to 2011. He joined the senior set-up with Munster in 2011 as backs coach, and in 2014, he succeeded Rob Penney as Munster head coach.

RIP Axel.