A security guard stationed at a building site close to a location set to host the 2026 Winter Olympics passed away during a night shift as temperatures plummeted to -12C. The 55-year-old worker suffered a fatal heart attack at the mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where he was working near the ice arena. Italy’s Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini has requested a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man’s death.
According to authorities, the deceased individual succumbed to a heart attack, classified as a natural cause. Andrea Varnier, the CEO of Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, disclosed during a press briefing at Milan’s new hockey arena that all relevant documentation was in order. An inquiry is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident, with initial reports suggesting it was due to natural causes while the guard was on duty.
Simico, the governmental entity responsible for overseeing Olympic infrastructure, clarified that the site was not within its jurisdiction and expressed condolences to the deceased’s family. Local officials in Cortina expressed deep sorrow and concern over the worker’s untimely demise.
Severe cold weather can elevate the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. As temperatures drop, blood vessels contract, redirecting blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain. Individuals with existing heart conditions are particularly vulnerable to such health risks, as cold weather can lead to increased blood pressure and strain on the heart. The British Heart Foundation recently issued a cautionary advisory urging individuals with heart ailments to limit exposure to cold weather and take preventive measures.
Precautions are especially crucial with the impending Milan Cortina Winter Olympics scheduled for February 6-22. The Cortina ice arena will host various events including curling, sliding, and women’s Alpine skiing. The Olympic facilities in Cortina d’Ampezzo encompass the Cortina Sliding Centre, Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Village, and the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
The newly constructed Sliding Centre, named after Eugenio Monti, a renowned Olympic bobsleigh champion, is set to host bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge competitions during the 2026 games after undergoing redevelopment.