French football is in mourning after former Lyon and Saint-Étienne academy player Kenzo Kies was declared brain dead following a tragic drowning incident in the Rhône River. The 21-year-old midfielder, who spent the 2025/26 season with Guingamp’s reserve side, was involved in the accident near Lyon.
According to reports from RMC Sport, emergency services responded after four people were caught in a strong current at the Feyssine falls. While three people were rescued, divers later recovered Kies from the water. Despite resuscitation efforts, the young footballer was declared brain dead.
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Young Career Cut Short
Kenzo Kies began his football journey with Lyon’s academy in 2010 before moving to Saint-Étienne. He later joined Ligue 2 club Guingamp’s reserve team, where he spent the recently concluded season.
The talented midfielder was regarded as a promising player who had worked his way through some of France’s most respected youth systems.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy. The incident occurred during an intense heatwave affecting parts of Europe, prompting many people to seek relief in rivers and unsupervised swimming areas.
French Sports Minister Marina Ferrari has urged people to respect safety warnings after a series of recent drowning incidents across the country.
Football Community Pays Tribute
The heartbreaking news has sparked an outpouring of tributes from fans and members of the football community. Many supporters have taken to social media to express condolences to the young player’s family and friends.
Everyone at Ghana News, Ghana News Live, Top Stories, Policy & Law Hub, Press & Media and The Economy of Ghana extends heartfelt sympathies to his loved ones.
Why This Story Matters
The tragedy serves as another reminder of the dangers associated with swimming in unsupervised waters, especially during extreme weather conditions. It also highlights the fragility of life and the profound impact such losses have on the football world.
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