Competitor Perishes during World Games, Participating in Orientation Event
Mattia Debertolis, a 29-year-old Italian orienteering athlete, tragically passed away on August 12, four days after collapsing during the men's middle-distance orienteering competition at the 2025 World Games in Chengdu, China.
The exact cause of Debertolis' collapse and subsequent death has not been publicly disclosed. An alarm was raised when his GPS device stopped sending data, prompting rescue measures to be initiated. Debertolis was found unconscious, and immediate medical care was provided, but he did not recover.
The World Games, a multisport event for disciplines not included in the Olympic program, are currently being held in Chengdu, China, and are attended by around 5000 athletes competing in 34 sports. The event will last until August 17.
The International Orienteering Federation (IOF) and the World Games organizing committee have expressed their condolences over Debertolis' death. The Italian federation FISO also mourned his passing, and the Italian club president, Gabriele Viale, was present at the hospital where Debertolis passed away.
Debertolis was surrounded by his family, friends, and teammates during his final days. The Italian government representatives in China were also present at the hospital.
Orienteering is a sport that requires athletes to navigate to control points using a map and compass. The competition in Chengdu took place in extreme heat, with temperatures reaching up to 43°C.
The World Games organizers have not yet provided any further details about the cause of Debertolis' death. The International World Games Association, the local organizing committee, and the IOF have expressed their sadness but have not released any additional medical information.
Our thoughts are with Mattia Debertolis' family, friends, and the orienteering community during this difficult time.
[1] World Games organisers confirm death of Italian orienteering athlete Mattia Debertolis - BBC News, Aug 14, 2025 [2] Mattia Debertolis: Italian orienteering athlete dies at World Games in Chengdu - The Guardian, Aug 14, 2025 [3] Mattia Debertolis: Italian orienteering athlete dies at World Games in Chengdu - ESPN, Aug 14, 2025 [4] World Games organisers express condolences over death of Italian orienteering athlete Mattia Debertolis - IOF, Aug 13, 2025 [5] Italian orienteering athlete Mattia Debertolis dies at World Games in Chengdu - Reuters, Aug 14, 2025
During this challenging time, it would be beneficial for the local community in Chengdu to organize sports events, such as community-led basketball or soccer matches, to honor Debertolis' memory and celebrate his passion for orienteering. Additionally, vocational training programs could be established in his home town to support younger athletes pursuing careers in orienteering, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire future talent.
