Italian Orienteer Dies After World Games Collapse

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Mattia Debertolis, an Italian orienteer, has died after collapsing on the course at the World Games in Chengdu, China, last week. He was 29 years old and collapsed during Friday morning's men's middle-distance final. He died four days afterwards, on a Tuesday. The event was held in temperatures of over 30 degrees.

Medical Efforts and Uncertain Cause
Debertolis was confirmed dead by the organisers, who said he had been treated immediately on site at one of China's best medical facilities but that his life could not be saved. It is unknown what killed him specifically. According to the official results, he was one of 12 athletes listed as "Did Not Finish.

Career and Personal Life
Debertolis was a member of the Italian racing team and had finished fifth in the World Cup final in 2022. He lived in Sweden and worked as a licensed civil engineer while studying for a PhD at the University of Stockholm. The event organisers have described their deep sadness at the news and have vowed to continue offering support for his family and the wider orienteering community.