A security guard, stationed at a construction site adjacent to a venue for the 2026 Winter Olympics, passed away during an overnight shift in subzero temperatures. The 55-year-old worker suffered a fatal heart attack at the mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo, where he was working near Cortina’s ice arena. Italy’s Infrastructure Minister Matteo Salvini has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the man’s demise.
According to Andrea Varnier, CEO of the Fondazione Milano Cortina 2026, initial reports indicate that the cause of death was a heart attack, considered a natural occurrence. Varnier stated during a press briefing at Milan’s new hockey arena that all relevant documentation was in order, and they are awaiting the investigation’s findings to determine the specific cause. Emergency services have reported the incident as a death resulting from natural causes that occurred on site.
Simico, the governmental body responsible for overseeing Olympic infrastructure, clarified that the construction site was not under its direct supervision, offering condolences to the deceased worker’s family. Local officials in Cortina expressed deep sorrow and distress over the tragic event.
Extreme cold weather can elevate the risk of heart attacks and strokes. As temperatures decrease, blood vessels constrict, diverting more blood to vital organs like the heart and brain to maintain warmth. Individuals with cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable to heart-related issues as cold weather prompts the heart to work harder, increasing blood pressure. The British Heart Foundation recently issued a cautionary advisory on the potential dangers of cold weather, urging those with heart conditions to limit exposure to the cold.
Ruth Goss, a senior cardiac nurse at the BHF, emphasized the importance of preparation for individuals with heart ailments during winter, recommending appropriate clothing and receiving flu vaccinations for added protection.
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 Cortina d’Ampezzo Olympic territory encompasses key venues such as the Cortina Sliding Centre, Cortina d’Ampezzo Olympic and Paralympic Village, and the Cortina Curling Olympic Stadium.
Notably, the new Sliding Centre, renamed after Eugenio Monti, a renowned bobsleigh champion, will host bobsleigh, skeleton, and luge competitions during the 2026 games, following redevelopment efforts.