The Samoan Olympic boxing team is deeply saddened by the loss of their beloved coach, Lionel Elika Fatupaito, who passed away on Friday, the 26th, in the athletes’ village in Seine-Saint-Denis, France. Fatupaito, 60, suffered a heart attack.
What happened?
Fatupaito fell ill in his room around 10:20 a.m. local time on Friday, just before the Paris opening ceremony. An athlete was with him when he had the sudden medical emergency. Emergency services tried to help, but he was pronounced dead at the scene due to natural causes. The Seine-Saint-Denis judicial police are investigating the incident.
The International Boxing Federation (IBA) expressed their deepest condolences, praising Fatupaito’s dedication to boxing. They stated that his passion and commitment have left a lasting mark on the sport. “His legacy will inspire future generations,” the IBA added.
The Samoan Olympic body’s president, Pauga Talalelei Pauga, also honored Fatupaito, calling him one of Samoa’s top boxing coaches and a true believer in the Olympic spirit.
The Paris organizing committee shared their sorrow, saying they are deeply saddened by the news and extending their thoughts to Fatupaito’s family, friends, and the Samoan delegation.
Fatupaito was in France to coach Samoa’s only boxer, Ato Plodzicki-Faoagali, who is set to compete in the 92-kilogram category on Sunday against Belgium’s Victor Schelstraete. Plodzicki-Faoagali, 25, originally from Australia, is competing in his second Olympic Games.
He expressed his emotional struggle on Instagram, stating that the past week had been incredibly tough and mentally exhausting, especially with the recent loss of his coach. He thanked the people of Samoa for their support and paid tribute to Fatupaito, saying, “Thinking of you coach, wish you were here in the corner today.”
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Lionel Elika Fatupaito. His contribution to the sport and his legacy will be remembered. May he rest in peace.