The International World Games Association (IWGA), Local Organising Committee (LOC) of The World Games 2025 Chengdu and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF) confirm with great sadness the passing of Italian orienteering athlete, Mattia Debertolis.
Mattia Debertolis was found unconscious during the Men’s Middle Distance competition of Orienteering on the morning of Friday, 8 August 2025 in Chengdu, China, during the 12th edition of The World Games. Despite receiving immediate expert medical care at one of China’s leading medical institutions, he passed away on 12 August 2025.
The World Games Family, the LOC and the IOF is struck by this tragedy and extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the athlete and the whole Orienteering community. Our thoughts are with those touched by this event.
The IWGA, LOC, and IOF will continue to support the family of Mattia Debertolis and the orienteering community in every possible way.