Thai Footballer Dies After Lightning Strike During Match; 12 Others Injured
24-year-old Sofwan Awae succumbed to severe injuries after lightning struck the pitch during a local football tournament in southern Thailand.
SHAHARBEEN SPORTS DESK
Bangkok, Aug 6: A local football match in southern Thailand ended in tragedy after 24-year-old footballer Sofwan Awae was killed when lightning struck the playing field during a match in the Golok FA Cup on Tuesday. Twelve other players were also injured in the incident, which has sparked renewed concerns over player safety during severe weather conditions.
According to reports, the incident occurred during a match between SAMCOLTS and Abu x Nong Sirin, teams participating in the local tournament featuring amateur Thai and Thai-Malaysian football clubs. Heavy rain was falling when a powerful lightning bolt suddenly struck the pitch, followed by a loud explosion that left players and spectators in shock.
Videos circulating on social media show players collapsing to the ground moments after the lightning strike. Awae, who played as a winger for SAMCOLTS, was seen lying motionless as teammates rushed to assist him before emergency medical personnel arrived at the scene.
Authorities said medical teams made every possible effort to save the player, but he later succumbed to the severe injuries sustained in the strike. Police Chief Thun Sirikhunt confirmed the death, stating that despite immediate emergency treatment, Awae could not be revived.
The tragic incident has triggered widespread condolences across the football community. Many social media users questioned why the match continued despite adverse weather, with several calling for mandatory suspension of sporting events whenever thunderstorms pose a risk to players and officials.
The Football Association of Thailand expressed deep sorrow over the loss, extending condolences to Awae’s family, teammates, and club.
“The association joins in mourning this loss and offers its condolences to the family, those involved, and the football club during this time of sorrow,” the governing body said in an official statement.
Lightning-related fatalities are relatively common in Thailand. According to data from the country’s Department of Disease Control, at least 283 people were struck by lightning between 2020 and 2024, with many victims dying at the scene.
The heartbreaking death of Sofwan Awae has once again highlighted the importance of strict weather safety protocols in outdoor sporting events, with many urging organisers to prioritise player safety over continuing matches during dangerous conditions.
