Popular Footballer Dies After Tragic River Drowning

French football has been plunged into mourning following the tragic death of young footballer Kenzo Kies, who died after drowning in the Rhône River near Lyon during the intense heatwave currently affecting large parts of France.

The 21-year-old player, who was on the books of En Avant Guingamp, was reportedly pulled from the river by emergency responders on Monday after a desperate search operation. He was rushed to hospital in critical condition, but despite medical efforts to save his life, he later succumbed to his injuries.

According to reports, Kies had entered the river alongside three friends in an attempt to cool off as temperatures soared across the country. France has been experiencing exceptionally hot weather, with some regions recording temperatures of up to 40 degrees Celsius.

Emergency services managed to rescue the other three individuals, but Kies was the last person to be located in the water, prompting an intensive rescue effort before he was eventually recovered.

His death is one of several tragedies linked to the ongoing heatwave. French authorities have raised concerns over a sharp increase in water-related accidents as people seek relief from the extreme temperatures.

Reports indicate that dozens of people have lost their lives in drowning incidents across the country since the heatwave intensified. French government officials have urged the public to exercise caution around rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water, particularly during periods of extreme heat.

Kies was regarded as a promising young talent within French football. He began his development in the youth academies of Olympique Lyonnais and AS Saint-Étienne before joining Guingamp in 2025.

At the time of his death, he was playing for Guingamp’s reserve team and was widely considered a player with significant potential for future progression within the sport.

Confirming the heartbreaking news, Guingamp released a statement expressing its grief over the loss of the young footballer.

The club said it was deeply saddened by the news and pledged its full support to Kies’ family and loved ones during what it described as an extremely painful period.

Former club Saint-Étienne also paid tribute to the player, remembering him as both a talented footballer and a humble young man who was respected by teammates, coaches, and staff throughout his years in the academy system.

In an emotional message, the club reflected on the seven years Kies spent at its training centre and expressed condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had shared part of his football journey.

The tragedy has prompted an outpouring of grief from across the French football community, with players, supporters, and clubs paying tribute to a young athlete whose life and career were cut short far too soon.

As tributes continue to pour in, many have remembered Kenzo Kies not only for his potential on the pitch but also for the character and humility that earned him admiration from those who knew him.