Tragedy struck at a construction site near a 2026 Winter Olympic venue when a guard passed away during a night shift in -12C temperatures.
The unfortunate incident occurred at the mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where a 55-year-old worker suffered a heart attack while working near Cortina’s ice arena. Italian Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini has urged a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the worker’s death.
According to Andrea Varnier, CEO of the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, initial reports suggest the cause of death was a heart attack. Varnier stated, “Our records were in order, and we are awaiting the investigation results to determine the exact cause. Current information from emergency services indicates the death was due to natural causes while the worker was on duty.”
Simico, the governmental body overseeing Olympic infrastructure, clarified that the site was not under its supervision and offered condolences to the deceased worker’s family. City officials in Cortina expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss.
Severe cold conditions can heighten the risk of heart attacks and strokes. As temperatures plummet, blood vessels constrict, diverting blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain, leading to potential health complications.
Individuals with cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable to heart problems during cold spells due to increased blood pressure stemming from the heart’s intensified pumping to maintain circulation. The British Heart Foundation recently cautioned about the dangers of cold weather for those with heart issues, advising precautions to minimize exposure.
Ruth Goss, a senior cardiac nurse at the BHF, emphasized, “Cold weather can escalate the risk of heart ailments and strokes, and individuals with heart conditions are at heightened risk of severe complications from seasonal infections like the flu. Preparing for winter’s cold with appropriate clothing and flu vaccinations is crucial for those managing heart conditions.”
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 d’Ampezzo Olympic and Paralympic Village,