Italian athlete dies after collapsing during World Games orienteering race

An Italian athlete has died after being found unconscious mid-orienteering race, the International World Games Association (IWGA) has confirmed.

Mattia Debertolis was competing in the men’s middle distance race at The World Games — an Olympic-style meet for alternative events — in Chengdu, China on Friday when the incident occurred, a combined statement said. The news was confirmed by IWGA, the International Orienteering Federation and the Local Organising Committee of the event.

The 29-year-old received immediate medical care after he was found and was taken to a leading Chinese medical institution, but he passed away on Tuesday.

“I am not able to adequately describe in words the unfathomable depth of sadness in this tragic loss of life. Our thoughts are with all who mourn Mattia,” said the IOF president Tom Hollowell in a statement on their website.

“I encourage the global orienteering community to honor his memory.”

Orienteering involves navigating between checkpoints — with no set route — in the fastest time, and Debertolis was part of the national team that came fifth in relay of the 2022 World Cup final.

The IOF statement was published with the consent of the athlete’s family and illustrated more details on Debertolis’ career and life.

He had participated in several World Championships and World Cups during his career, after prioritising orienteering over cross-country skiing and football. Debertolis was also a civil engineering PHD student, studying in Stockholm.

The 12th edition of the World Games is taking place from August 7-17 in Chengdu. The multi-sport event takes place every four years and this year is hosting more than 100 nations.

(Photo: Virginie Lefour/Belga Mag/AFP via Getty Images)