Athletic competitor Mattia Debertolis from Italy regrettably passes away following a collapse during the World Games in China.
Mattia Debertolis, a prominent Italian orienteering athlete, tragically passed away on August 12, 2025, following an incident during the men's middle-distance final at the World Games in Chengdu, China.
Debertolis, who was 29 years old, was found unconscious during the competition on August 8. Despite receiving immediate medical care at one of China's leading medical institutions, he succumbed to his condition five days later.
The exact cause of his collapse and subsequent death has not been disclosed in the available reports. A joint statement from the International World Games Association, the Local Organising Committee of The World Games 2025 Chengdu, and the International Orienteering Federation confirmed the timeline but did not specify a medical cause for his death.
Mattia Debertolis was a seasoned competitor, representing Italy in multiple World Championships and World Cups since 2014. He was ranked 137th in the men's Orienteering World Rankings.
The World Games, a multi-sport competition held every four years for disciplines not featured in the Olympics, is currently underway in Chengdu, China, and runs until August 17. The incident occurred approximately 50 kilometers from central Chengdu.
The conditions during the competition were challenging, with temperatures above 30°C and high humidity. Despite these adverse conditions, the men's middle-distance final was won by Switzerland's Riccardo Rancan in 45 minutes and 22 seconds. However, twelve athletes, including Debertolis, did not complete the final.
Tributes for Mattia Debertolis are pouring in from around the sporting world. The organizers and the International Orienteering Federation have pledged to support his family and the orienteering community during this difficult time.
Orienteering is a sport that requires competitors to navigate an unmarked course using a map and compass, checking in at control points as quickly as possible. It is a sport that demands physical fitness, mental agility, and a keen sense of direction.
Our thoughts are with Mattia Debertolis's family, friends, and the orienteering community during this tragic time.
[1] World Games Organizers and IOF Statement on Mattia Debertolis's Death (August 12, 2025) [2] Mattia Debertolis Dies During Orienteering Competition at World Games (August 12, 2025) [3] Tributes Pour In for Mattia Debertolis (August 13, 2025) [4] Mattia Debertolis: A Promising Career Cut Short (August 14, 2025) [5] The Tragedy at the World Games: A Look Back (August 15, 2025)
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