Italian competitor succumbs at World Games held in China
In a shocking turn of events, 29-year-old Mattia Debertolis, a prominent figure in the world of orienteering, passed away during the men's middle-distance event at the ongoing World Games in Chengdu, China.
Debertolis, who was ranked 137th in the men's Orienteering World Rankings, was found unconscious during the competition on August 8. Despite immediate expert medical care at one of China's leading medical institutions, he succumbed to his injuries four days later on August 12.
The exact cause of Debertolis's death remains undisclosed, with official statements from the International World Games Association, the local organizing committee, and the International Orienteering Federation offering no insights into the incident.
The World Games, a multisport event held every four years for disciplines not included in the Olympics, is currently in its 12th edition and runs until August 17. This year's event took place approximately 50 kilometers (30 miles) outside of central Chengdu and was held in intense heat and humidity, with temperatures above 30 degrees.
Debertolis had been a consistent participant in the sport, competing since 2014, according to the IOF website. He had represented Italy in several World Championships and World Cups.
Eleven other athletes, including Debertolis, were listed as "Did Not Finish" in the official results of the event. Switzerland's Riccardo Rancan emerged victorious, winning the men's middle-distance event with a time of 45 minutes and 22 seconds.
World Games organisers and the IOF have expressed their condolences to Debertolis's family and the orienteering community, pledging their support during this difficult time.
[1] International World Games Association statement: [link] [2] Local Organizing Committee statement: [link] [3] International Orienteering Federation statement: [link] [4] Official Results of the World Games: [link]
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