French footballer Kenzo Kies has tragically died from drowning in the Rhone river. The 21-year-old, who played for Guingamp in Ligue 2, was in a critical condition when firefighters pulled him from the water on Monday, but he later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.

Kies entered the river near Lyon with three friends to escape the extreme heat, which has seen temperatures soar to 40C in parts of France this week. While three of his companions were rescued, Kies was the last to be found.

In the wake of this tragedy, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu reported that forty people have drowned in heatwave-related incidents in France since the previous Thursday.

Kies had previously been part of the youth setups at Lyon and Saint-Etienne before joining Guingamp last year, where he played in the reserve team.

Guingamp expressed their sorrow on X, stating:

Guingamp has had the sorrow of learning of the death of Kenzo Kies, a young player with the club.

Saint-Etienne also released a heartfelt statement:

The Green Generation is in mourning. A talented player and discreet young man appreciated by all, Kenzo Kies has lost his life in dramatic circumstances. We extend our most sincere condolences to his loved ones, teammates, and coaches. Kenzo, no one will ever forget you.

Plans are underway for a tribute to Kies at the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium at the start of the next season.