A security guard stationed at a construction site near a venue for 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 Cortina d’Ampezzo mountain resort, where he was employed close to Cortina’s ice arena. Italy’s Infrastructure Minister, Matteo Salvini, has urged for a thorough investigation into the incident.
According to authorities, the CEO of the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, Andrea Varnier, disclosed that initial reports suggest the cause of death was a heart attack, classified as a natural occurrence. Varnier stated that all related documents were in order and emphasized the need to ascertain the specific cause through the ongoing investigation.
Simico, the governmental body responsible for overseeing Olympic infrastructure, clarified that the site was not under its jurisdiction, expressing condolences to the deceased worker’s family. Local Cortina officials conveyed their deep sorrow and concern regarding the tragic event.
Cold weather can heighten the risk of heart attacks and strokes. When temperatures drop, blood vessels contract in the skin, fingers, and toes, leading to increased heat loss and redirected blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain. Individuals with cardiovascular issues are more vulnerable to such health risks due to heightened blood pressure from the heart working harder to circulate blood.
The British Heart Foundation recently issued a cautionary advisory about the dangers of cold weather, especially for those with heart conditions, recommending minimizing outdoor exposure. Ruth Goss, a senior cardiac nurse at the BHF, stressed the importance of preparedness for individuals with heart ailments during winter, advising adequate clothing and flu vaccinations.
The upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, scheduled for February 6-22, will feature various events at the Cortina ice arena, including curling, sliding, and women’s Alpine skiing. The Olympic territory in Cortina d’Ampezzo encompasses the Cortina Sliding Centre, Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Village, and the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
The newly constructed Sliding Centre, situated on the site of the historic track named after Eugenio Monti, a two-time Olympic bobsleigh champion, will host bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge competitions during the 2026 games.
