According to the event organizers, the cause of his sudden death is unknown.

Debertolis, 29, was found unconscious during an orienteering event on August 8 and died four days later, said a joint statement from World Games officials and the International Orienteering Federation (IOF).

The competition, occurred during extreme heat and humidity, conducted roughly 50 kilometers from downtown Chengdu, with temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

Also Read: Mohamed Salah calls out UEFA post on martyrdom of Palestinian footballer

Debertolis, from Primero in eastern Italy, was taking part in the final of the men’s middle-distance race event when he collapsed.

“Despite receiving immediate expert medical care at one of China’s leading medical institutions, he passed away,” the officials stated.

The statement offered condolences to the athlete’s family, friends, and the orienteering community, expressing deep sadness over the tragedy. However, it did not provide details on the cause of death.

Debertolis was listed as “Did Not Finish” in official results, along with 11 other athletes.

He participated in several World Championships and World Cups as part of the Italian team.

World Games organizers and the International orienteering Federation (IOF) were “struck by this tragedy and extend their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the athlete and the whole orienteering community”, the joint statement read.

“Our thoughts are with those touched by this event.” Organizers will “continue to support the family of Mattia Debertolis and the orienteering community in every possible way”, it added.