An Indonesian footballer from Persikas Subang died after a lightning strike during a friendly match in Bandung, a tragedy that has prompted a national dialogue on safety at semiprofessional venues. The incident occurred at Siliwangi Stadium on February 10, drawing attention to the urgent need for improved weather monitoring and protective measures at outdoor sports facilities across the country.
Witnesses described two distinct lightning events during the game. The first strike did not injure players, but the second impact trapped one athlete in a life-threatening moment. He collapsed on the field and lost consciousness, with teammates quickly moving to his side to administer aid. Medical personnel arrived promptly and transported him to a nearby hospital for emergency care. Despite the best efforts of doctors and staff, the player did not regain consciousness and died at the hospital.
In the ensuing moments of chaos, another teammate reportedly fainted and required assistance on the turf, underscoring the acute danger facing players, officials, and fans in stadiums during severe weather. Eyewitnesses described a tense atmosphere as officials and supporters awaited updates on the injured athlete’s condition, hoping for a miracle while recognizing the vulnerability of those on the field.
Local authorities and football officials noted that lightning storms have struck Siliwangi Stadium before during sporting events. The repeated weather-related incidents at the venue have sparked questions about infrastructure resilience, weather tracking capabilities, and safety protocols designed to protect athletes and spectators during matches and training sessions. These concerns have accelerated conversations about risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and the need for rapid response plans that can save lives when the weather turns dangerous.
Persikas Subang competes in Indonesia’s third-tier league, a competitive division featuring clubs from across the archipelago. In the season leading up to the tragedy, Persikas Subang had played 13 matches, recording seven wins, two draws, and four losses. The recent loss casts a somber shadow over the club, its supporters, and the wider football community as they reflect on player welfare, emergency readiness, and the steps necessary to strengthen on-field safety during matches and trainings alike.
Following the incident, discussions have intensified about weather risk assessment for outdoor venues, the installation of lightning protection systems, and the availability of rapid medical intervention during events. While the focus remains on honoring the deceased athlete and supporting his teammates, there is a broader push for leagues to review and upgrade safety guidelines to minimize the risk of similar tragedies in the future and to standardize best practices across all levels of competition.
In parallel conversations across the football world, other high-profile events have influenced safety debates. The passing of a prominent Amkal player, Kurylenko, has been cited in discussions about player health and the ongoing responsibilities of clubs and stadium authorities to safeguard athletes at every level. Together, these events underscore the need for robust medical readiness, clear emergency communication, and rigorous compliance with safety standards so players can compete with greater protection in place.