Lionel Fatu Elika, the national boxing coach of Samoa, has died suddenly at the 2024 Paris Olympics, just days before the start of the boxing competition.
Lionel Fatu Elika, the national boxing coach of Samoa, died on Friday after reportedly suffering a cardiac arrest at the Olympic village. He was 60 years old.
The Samoa Association of Sport and National Olympic Committee (SASNOC) released a statement confirming the tragic news. "Lionel was one of Samoa's top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal," said SASNOC president Pauga Talalelei Pauga. "Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel's family, his boxers, and friends. He will be greatly missed."
Samoan Boxing Coach Lionel Fatu Elika Dies at Paris Olympics
According to AFP, Elika suffered a cardiac arrest while at the Olympic village, where he was treated by emergency services. His cause of death was listed as "natural causes."
The International Boxing Association (IBA) also issued a statement on Saturday, expressing condolences to Elika's family and colleagues. "We at the IBA extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Lionel Elika Fatupaito, the national boxing coach of Samoa, who tragically passed away during the Paris 2024," the statement read.
Samoan Boxing Coach Lionel Fatu Elika Dies at Paris Olympics
"Lionel's dedication and passion for the sport have left an indelible mark on the boxing community. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations. Our thoughts and prayers are with Team Samoa and all those affected by this profound loss."
Elika's death comes just days before the start of the boxing competition at the Paris Olympics. Boxing is scheduled to begin on Saturday, July 29.
Samoan Boxing Coach Lionel Fatu Elika Dies at Paris Olympics
Elika's passing is a devastating loss for the Samoan boxing community and the international boxing community as a whole. He was a respected coach and mentor who dedicated his life to the sport. His legacy will live on through the countless boxers he has coached and inspired.
Team Samoa has been in mourning since Elika's death. The team has been competing in the Olympics, but they have been understandably shaken by the loss of their coach and friend.
Samoan Boxing Coach Lionel Fatu Elika Dies at Paris Olympics
"It's a very difficult time for us," said Samoa's chef de mission, Leulu Fa'oaso. "Lionel was a great coach and a great friend. He will be deeply missed."
The Samoan team is determined to honor Elika's memory by competing with pride and passion at the Olympics. They know that he would have wanted them to do their best and represent Samoa with dignity.
