Uini Atonio retires from rugby union after France and La Rochelle prop suffers a heart attack

Uini Atonio has been forced to retire from rugby union after suffering a heart attack on Tuesday.

The 35-year-old is in a stable condition in hospital and is in intensive care.

In a statement on Wednesday morning, the France prop’s club side La Rochelle announced that he will not be playing the sport again for the sake of his health.

La Rochelle’s statement on Uini Atonio

‘Uini Atonio was admitted yesterday to the La Rochelle Hospital Center following a suspected heart problem,’ the statement read. ‘Medical examinations confirmed a heart attack. His condition is now stable and he remains under surveillance in intensive care.

‘At the end of his hospitalization, Uini will have to observe 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.’

Atonio was originally called up to France’s squad for the upcoming Six Nations – with the reigning champions hosting Ireland on February 5.

Taking to social media, France Rugby gave their support for Atonio: ‘All our support for your recovery, health above all. We’re with you, Uini.’

Born in New Zealand, to Samoan parents, Atonio spent most of his career at La Rochelle, joining the team in 2011 after then-coach Patrice Collazo spotted him at a tournament in Hong Kong.

After qualifying for France on residency grounds, he earned his first cap with the national team in 2014, going on as a substitute during a 40-15 win against Fiji.

Atonio started all five matches in the 2022 Six Nations Championship and won the Grand Slam with France. In 2025, he won another Six Nations title after victory against Scotland. He has played more than 300 matches with La Rochelle.