Four days after treatment
Orientation runner dies in China
12.08.2025 – 10:03 a.m.Reading time: 1 min.
In the event of an orientation run, the athletes often reach their limits. It was doomed to an athlete.
The 29-year-old Italian orientation runner Mattia Debertolis collapsed during a race at the World Games in Chengdu, China. He was found unconscious on Friday and immediately medical care. Despite the treatment in a clinic, he died four days later. The organizers have given no further information about the exact circumstances of death.
In a message, the organizers were deeply affected and spoke of the family, friends and international orientation community.
In the event of orientation run, athletes have to complete a defined route with control points using compass and map. The World Games are considered the most important multi-sports event for non-Olympic disciplines. This year, around 5,000 athletes from 34 sports take part. The games last until August 17th.