Italian orienteering competitor Mattia Debertolis, 29, has died after collapsing during a men’s middle-distance final at the World Games in Chengdu, China. Event organisers confirmed he was found unconscious on August 8 and passed away four days later, despite receiving urgent treatment at one of China’s top medical facilities.
A joint statement from the World Games organisers and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) expressed deep sorrow over his death and pledged continued support to his family and the global orienteering community. No details on the cause of death have been released.
The competition, staged about 50 kilometres from central Chengdu, took place in intense heat and humidity, with temperatures exceeding 30°C. Orienteering challenges athletes to navigate an unmarked course using only a map and compass, aiming to reach all checkpoints in the fastest time possible.
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Debertolis was among 12 competitors, including himself, listed as “Did Not Finish” in the official results. Switzerland’s Riccardo Rancan won the race in 45 minutes and 22 seconds.
Ranked 137th in the men’s Orienteering World Rankings, Debertolis had been competing internationally since 2014, representing Italy in multiple World Championships and World Cups. The 12th edition of the World Games, which hosts sports not featured in the Olympics, continues until August 17.