The orienteering community mourns the loss of Mattia Debertolis, a promising Italian athlete who died following a collapse during the World Games last week in Chengdu, China.
Tragic Loss at World Games: Italian Orienteer Mattia Debertolis Passes Away
Tragic Loss at World Games: Italian Orienteer Mattia Debertolis Passes Away
29-year-old athlete succumbs after collapse during orienteering event in Chengdu, China.
Italian orienteer Mattia Debertolis, aged 29, tragically passed away after collapsing during a competition at the World Games held in Chengdu, China. The incident occurred while the athlete was participating in the men's middle-distance event on a day when temperatures soared above 30 degrees Celsius.
Organizers found Debertolis unconscious and he received expert medical attention at a leading medical institution. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his condition four days later, with the exact cause of his death still undetermined, according to a statement from the World Games organizers.
Debertolis, who was ranked 137th globally, was a dedicated member of the Italian national team and showcased impressive skill, having finished fifth in the 2022 World Cup final. His sudden passing has left a profound impact on the orienteering community, and the World Games officials expressed their commitment to supporting his family during this difficult time.
The World Games, a multi-sport event featuring non-Olympic disciplines held every four years, has been a platform for many athletes to compete at elite levels. Debertolis' untimely death has sparked conversations about the safety and health measures in place for athletes competing in high-stress environments.
