Athletic competitor from Italy perishes at the World Games, held in China
In a tragic turn of events, Italian orienteering athlete Mattia Debertolis passed away on Tuesday, August 16, during the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China. The 29-year-old collapsed during the men's middle-distance event, which took place about 50 kilometers outside of central Chengdu.
The men's middle-distance event was the first medal event of the Chengdu Games, featuring a six-kilometer course with 180 meters of ascent and 20 control points that athletes must visit. The competition took place under intense heat and humidity, with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.
Despite receiving immediate expert medical care, Mattia Debertolis was pronounced dead four days later, on August 12. The official cause of death has not been disclosed by the organizers or medical authorities.
The World Games organizers and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) have expressed their condolences to Mattia Debertolis' family, friends, and the orienteering community. They also pledged to continue supporting Mattia's family during this difficult time.
Mattia Debertolis had been competing in orienteering since 2014 and had participated in several World Championships and World Cups as part of the Italian team. He was ranked 137th in the men's Orienteering World Rankings.
Footage from the World Games' social media accounts showed athletes running through crop fields and villages on a largely rural course. Unfortunately, 11 other athletes, including Mattia Debertolis, were listed as "Did Not Finish" in the official results of the men's middle-distance event.
Switzerland's Riccardo Rancan won the men's middle-distance event at the World Games in 45 minutes and 22 seconds.
Mattia Debertolis was studying for a PhD at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm. His passing has left a profound impact on the orienteering community and beyond.
The 12th edition of the World Games is running until August 17, with approximately 4,000 athletes competing in 253 events. The World Games is a multisport event held every four years for disciplines not included in the Olympics.
Our thoughts are with Mattia Debertolis' family and friends during this difficult time.
