Italian Athlete Dies at World Games in China

Italian orienteering athlete Mattia Debertolis, 29, has died after collapsing during the men’s middle-distance competition at the World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China, event organizers confirmed on Tuesday.

Debertolis, who was competing in the final on Friday, was found unconscious on the course. He received immediate medical attention and was taken to one of China’s leading medical institutions, but passed away four days later, according to a joint statement from the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF).

No further details — including the official cause of death — were provided. The competition took place under intense heat and humidity, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F).

The World Games, held every four years, feature sports and disciplines not included in the Olympic Games.