Laurent Marti, the president of Bordeaux Bègles, is airing some grave concerns about the health of Springbok flanker Jean-Luc du Preez, suggesting the player might need to consider hanging up his boots for good. After transferring from Sale Sharks for the 2025-26 season, du Preez's stint with the French champions has been marred by a sparse three-game appearance due to ongoing concussion woes.
The South African has been off the pitch since January following a concussion and hasn't seen game time since. His struggles with injury aren't new; the 30-year-old's career has been riddled with setbacks, including missing the 2023 World Cup and subsequent Test matches due to various health issues.
"I have serious doubts, but there are medical experts for that,"
Marti expressed to Sud Ouest."If it were my son, I would ask him to stop because I’m very scared."
He acknowledged that losing du Preez would be a significant blow to the team, emphasizing the player's potential impact had he been fit.In addition to his concussion, du Preez has had a tumultuous couple of years, missing crucial matches against top international sides. An illness knocked him out of a Rugby Championship bout against Australia, and a knee injury sidelined him just when he was poised for a comeback against New Zealand at Eden Park.
The situation sheds light on the broader issue of player health and safety in rugby, underscored by ongoing legal scrutiny around concussion protocols. As du Preez's future hangs in the balance, the rugby world watches on, reminded of the sport's grueling demands on those who play it.