French footballer Kenzo Kies dies aged 21 after drowning in Rhone
French footballer Kenzo Kies has died at the age of 21 after drowning in the Rhone river near Lyon during a severe national heatwave.
The Ligue 2 side confirmed the tragic passing of their reserve team player following a critical incident on Monday.
Emergency services pulled the young athlete from the water before he subsequently succumbed to his condition in hospital.
The 21-year-old had entered the river alongside three friends seeking refuge from blistering temperatures reaching 40C across France.
Emergency response during extreme heat
Firefighters successfully rescued three individuals from the currents, but the former youth prospect was the final person to be located.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu revealed earlier this week that 40 people have tragically lost their lives to heatwave-related drownings since last Thursday.
Before joining Guingamp last year, the talented youngster developed his skills within the esteemed academies of Lyon and Saint-Etienne.
Former clubs unite in mourning
Following the devastating news, Guingamp expressed their deep sorrow and pledged comprehensive support to the bereaved family during this painful ordeal.
“Guingamp has had the sorrow of learning of the death of Kenzo Kies, a young player with the club.”
Officials at Saint-Etienne, where the discreet young man spent seven years developing at the Robert-Herbin Sports Centre, also shared a poignant tribute.
“The Green Generation is in mourning. Saint-Etienne extends its most sincere condolences to his loved ones as well as to those – teammates and coaches alike – who shared a piece of his journey.”
A club spokesperson confirmed plans are currently underway to formally honour their former academy graduate at the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium at the start of next season.
