Samoa’s national boxing coach has died after suffering a cardiac arrest at the Olympic village in Paris, according to officials and other reports.
“Lionel was one of Samoa’s top boxing coaches and a great believer in the Olympic ideal,” Mr. Pauga said in a statement, which was shared by the Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) on behalf of the Samoa NOC.
“Our thoughts and those of the entire Samoan sporting community are with Lionel’s family, his boxers, and friends. He will be greatly missed,” Mr. Pauga added.
Mr. Pauga and the Samoa NOC Secretary General Maureen Tuimalealiifano met with the Samoan delegation for a briefing and team prayer ahead of the opening ceremony in Paris, per the ONOC.
“We at the International Boxing Association (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 association stated.
“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.”
ONOC said in the press release that the Samoa NOC would not be issuing any further statements on Mr. Elika’s death and that it requests that the privacy of his family and the Samoan athletes “are respected during this difficult time.”
According to AFP, Mr. Elika died from cardiac arrest. He was treated by emergency services, but they were unable to revive him.
Samoa, a Pacific Island nation, has 24 athletes competing in the Paris 2024 Olympics.
