A security guard stationed at a construction site close to a 2026 Winter Olympic location passed away during a night shift as temperatures plummeted to -12C. The worker, aged 55, suffered a fatal heart attack at the Cortina d’Ampezzo mountain resort, where he was working near Cortina’s ice arena. Italy’s Infrastructure Minister, Matteo Salvini, has urged for a thorough investigation into the incident.
According to Andrea Varnier, CEO of Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, the preliminary information suggests that the guard’s death was due to a heart attack, a natural cause. Varnier mentioned that all necessary documentation was in order, awaiting the investigation results to determine the precise cause of the tragedy.
Simico, the authority overseeing Olympic infrastructure, clarified that the construction site was not under their supervision and extended condolences to the deceased worker’s family. Cortina city officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the worker.
Cold weather can elevate the risk of heart attacks or strokes as blood vessels constrict in response to dropping temperatures, potentially straining the heart. Individuals with cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable to such health risks in chilly conditions. The British Heart Foundation has advised caution and recommended minimizing outdoor exposure for those with heart ailments during cold spells.
The upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, scheduled for February 6-22, will feature a variety of events at the Cortina ice arena, including curling, sliding, and women’s Alpine skiing. The Olympic territory in Cortina d’Ampezzo encompasses venues such as the Cortina Sliding Centre, Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Village, and the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
A new Sliding Centre, named after the legendary Eugenio Monti, a two-time Olympic bobsleigh champion, will host bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge events for the 2026 games after undergoing redevelopment.
