Tragic Loss at World Games: Italian Orienteer Passes Away

Mattia Debertolis, a promising Italian orienteer, tragically passed away following a collapse during the World Games in China. Despite medical efforts, he could not be revived after collapsing at a middle-distance event.

Italian orienteer Mattia Debertolis has tragically died after suffering a collapse during the World Games held last week in Chengdu, China. The 29-year-old athlete was found unconscious by event organizers during a competitive orienteering event on Friday. Unfortunately, he passed away on Tuesday, just four days after his collapse.

In a statement, the World Games organizers noted that despite receiving immediate expert medical attention at one of China’s premier medical facilities, they were unable to save Debertolis. The specific cause of his death remains unknown at this time.

The World Games is an international multi-sport event that occurs every four years, featuring disciplines not included in the Olympic Games. At the time of his collapse, Debertolis was competing in the men’s middle-distance final, which took place in sweltering conditions exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. He was one of twelve athletes marked as "Did Not Finish" in the official competition results.

Debertolis was an esteemed member of the Italian national team, finishing an impressive 5th place in the 2022 World Cup final. In light of this tragic event, the World Games organizers have expressed their commitment to supporting Debertolis' family and the wider orienteering community in any way possible.