Uini Atonio forced to retire after cardiac event

France and La Rochelle prop Uini Atonio has been forced to retire from professional rugby after suffering a career-ending cardiac event, his club confirmed.

The 35-year-old is in stable condition in intensive care following hospitalisation for a heart attack just days before France’s Six Nations opener against Ireland.

Atonio was admitted to a La Rochelle hospital after experiencing heart problems, with medical tests confirming a cardiac event.

Although his condition is stable under close observation, doctors have determined that he will need a long recovery and will not be able to continue his playing career.

The New Zealand-born tighthead prop spent his entire professional career at La Rochelle, joining the French club in 2011 and making more than 300 appearances.

He played a key role in back-to-back European Champions Cup victories in 2022 and 2023 and was regarded as one of the most powerful scrummagers in world rugby.

Internationally, Atonio qualified for France through residency and made his debut in 2014, earning 68 caps. He was part of France’s Six Nations title-winning sides, including the Grand Slam in 2022 and the championship retained in 2025.

Atonio had been named in France’s initial Six Nations squad prior to being withdrawn earlier this week. The rugby community has expressed support and best wishes for his recovery during this difficult time.

"Uini Atonio was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem," read a statement from La Rochelle.

"His condition is now stable, and he remains in intensive care under observation. Following his hospitalisation, Uini will have to undergo a long period of recovery. It is now established that he will not be able to continue his playing career.

"Uini holds a special place in the history and heart of our club. This news touches us deeply. The entire club wishes to send him and his family its total and unwavering support in this ordeal."