Italian Orienteer Mattia Debertolis Dies After Collapse at World Games

29-year-old Debertolis was an accomplished orienteer who represented Italy and competed in the World Games.

Mattia Debertolis, a prominent Italian orienteer, has died after suffering a collapse during the World Games held in Chengdu, China. The 29-year-old athlete was discovered unconscious by event organizers while competing in the men's middle-distance final last Friday. Despite receiving immediate and expert medical attention at a leading medical facility, he succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday, just four days post-collapse.

At this time, the specific cause of Debertolis' death has not been determined. The World Games are a biennial multi-sport event that showcases sports not included in the Olympic roster. Debertolis was involved in a challenging race marked by soaring temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius, and he was subsequently among 12 competitors who did not finish the event. Debertolis had previously showcased his talent by securing a 5th place in the 2022 World Cup final and was a member of the Italian national team. In an official statement, the World Games organizers expressed their condolences, pledging ongoing support for both Debertolis' family and the broader orienteering community during this difficult time.