Tragic Loss: Italian Orienteer Mattia Debertolis Dies After Collapse at World Games

The orienteering world mourns the unexpected passing of Mattia Debertolis, a 29-year-old athlete who collapsed at the World Games in China last week.

Mattia Debertolis, a 29-year-old Italian orienteer, has tragically passed away after collapsing during a race at the World Games in Chengdu, China last Friday. Organizers found Debertolis unconscious, and he succumbed to his condition four days later, despite advanced medical intervention at a top hospital. The cause of death remains undetermined. Competing in challenging temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius, Debertolis participated in the men's middle-distance final and was among a group of athletes who did not complete the event. Renowned for his achievements, including a 5th place finish in the 2022 World Cup final, he was a valued member of the Italian national team. In response to this tragedy, World Games organizers expressed their commitment to supporting Debertolis' family and the orienteering community during this difficult time.