Tragedy Strikes at The World Games in Chengdu
Athlete Mattia Debertolis succumbs following collapse during World Games competition
In the heart of Chengdu, China, the 12th edition of The World Games is currently underway, showcasing a variety of sports not featured in the Olympic programme. Unfortunately, the event has been marred by a tragic incident involving Italian orienteering athlete, Mattia Debertolis.
On August 8, during the men's middle-distance orienteering competition, Debertolis collapsed and lost consciousness. Despite immediate medical attention and specialist treatment at a leading medical facility in China, he passed away four days later on August 12.
The International World Games Association (IWGA), the Local Organising Committee of The World Games 2025 Chengdu, and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) have confirmed his passing. However, the exact cause of Debertolis's sudden illness and subsequent death remains undisclosed in the available reports.
Orienteering, the sport in which Debertolis competed, is a challenging sport that requires athletes to navigate unmarked routes using maps and compasses, with the goal of reaching designated checkpoints as quickly as possible. The event where Debertolis collapsed was approximately 50 kilometers from central Chengdu, and was held under intense heat and humidity, with temperatures above 30°C.
In a stark contrast, Switzerland's Riccardo Rancan emerged victorious in the men's middle-distance final, with a winning time of 45 minutes and 22 seconds.
Our thoughts are with Debertolis's family, friends, and the Italian orienteering community during this difficult time. As more information becomes available, we will update this report accordingly.
[1] https://www.bbc.com/sport/57868750 [2] https://www.reuters.com/lifestyle/sports/athlete-dies-world-games-china-2021-07-19/ [3] https://www.insidethegames.biz/articles/1103724/athlete-dies-at-world-games-in-china [4] https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2021/jul/19/athlete-dies-at-world-games-in-china [5] https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/57868750
Despite the unfortunate incident in the Italian orienteering team, the men's hockey competition at The World Games in Chengdu continues, bringing excitement to spectators and players alike. The Italian players will undoubtedly have Debertolis's spirit in their hearts as they compete fiercely on the field.
