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Italian Orienteer Mattia Debertolis Dies After Collapse at World Games

Organisers confirmed his passing four days after he collapsed during the men’s middle-distance event, without disclosing any cause of death.

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Italian Athlete Mattia Debertolis Dies At World Games In China Under Mysterious Circumstances
Mattia Debertolis of Italy competes in men's middle distance qualification race during day 1 of the World Orienteering Championship in Tahko, Finnland, on July 8, 2025.
The 2023 Special Olympics World Games kick off with an epic night of celebration and joy during the Opening Ceremonies held at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin, Germany

Overview

  • Debertolis was found unconscious on August 8 during the men’s middle-distance orienteering final in Chengdu and was rushed to hospital for immediate expert care.
  • A joint statement from the IWGA, LOC and IOF on August 12 confirmed his death despite the medical treatment he received, with no details released about the cause.
  • Competitors had navigated a 6 km course featuring 180 m of ascent and 20 control points in sweltering conditions above 30 °C.
  • The International World Games Association, International Orienteering Federation and Italian federation issued condolences, pledged support for his family and community, and teams announced black armbands and half-mast flags.
  • Debertolis, 29, had competed internationally since 2014, was ranked in the world standings and was studying for a PhD in civil engineering in Stockholm when he died.