Athlete, 29, Dies 4 Days After ‘Being Found Unconscious’ at World Games in China

Italian Athlete Passes Away 4 Days After Being Found Unconscious at World Games in China

An Italian athlete, Mattia Debertolis, tragically passed away on Tuesday, August 12, after collapsing during the World Games in Chengdu, China on Friday, August 8. The joint statement from The World Games and the International Orienteering Federation confirmed the devastating news, revealing that Debertolis was found unconscious during the Men’s Middle Distance competition of Orienteering and despite receiving immediate medical care, he did not survive. Debertolis, aged 29, was a prominent figure in the sports world and his sudden death has left the community in mourning.

The World Games and the International Orienteering Federation released a joint statement on Tuesday, confirming the passing of Italian athlete Mattia Debertolis. The statement revealed that Debertolis was found unconscious during the Men’s Middle Distance Orienteering competition on Friday, August 8, during the 12th edition of The World Games in Chengdu, China. Despite the immediate expert medical attention he received, Debertolis tragically passed away on August 12, 2025. The athlete’s death has shocked the sports community and left many grieving the untimely loss.

Reports from CNN and the BBC confirmed that Mattia Debertolis was 29 years old at the time of his passing. The details surrounding the incident that led to his collapse and subsequent death have not been fully disclosed. In response to the tragic news, the IOF President, Tom Hollowell, offered his heartfelt condolences to Debertolis’ family and loved ones. Describing the loss as unfathomably sad, Hollowell urged the orienteering community to remember and honour Debertolis’ memory. The sudden and unexpected death of the talented athlete has sent shockwaves through the sports world.

Debertolis’ participation in the World Games marked a significant moment in his athletic career, as he competed at a high level representing Italy. His dedication to the sport was evident in his previous achievements, including participating in various World Championships and World Cups. The orienteering community has been left reeling from the loss of a talented and respected athlete, with Debertolis leaving a lasting impact on those who knew him. The Italian athlete’s commitment to his sport and his achievements on the world stage will be fondly remembered by those he encountered during his career.

Beyond his athletic pursuits, Debertolis was also known for his academic endeavours, studying civil engineering and pursuing a PhD at a university in Stockholm. Additionally, he contributed to his family’s local hotel in Primiero, showcasing his strong work ethic and dedication to both his professional and personal life. The sudden passing of such a well-rounded individual has left a void in the hearts of many, as they remember his kindness, passion, and dedication to everything he pursued. Debertolis’ impact extended beyond the world of sports, touching the lives of those around him in various aspects of his life.

As the orienteering community mourns the loss of Mattia Debertolis, tributes pour in from around the world highlighting the impact he had on those he encountered. The support and condolences offered by fellow athletes, friends, and fans serve as a testament to the profound influence Debertolis had during his time in the sports world. While the circumstances surrounding his death are tragic, his legacy as an athlete and a remarkable individual will continue to inspire and resonate with those who had the pleasure of knowing him.

In light of the tragic event, the orienteering community stands united in remembering and celebrating the life of Mattia Debertolis. As the world continues to process the loss of such a talented and respected athlete, his memory lives on through the indelible mark he left on the sports world and beyond. The legacy of Mattia Debertolis serves as a reminder of the impact individuals can have on the lives of others, both on and off the field of play. May his spirit continue to inspire and motivate all those who aspire to follow in his footsteps, embodying the dedication and passion he displayed throughout his remarkable life.

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