Fabrizio Longo, a 62-year-old executive who led Audi’s operations in Italy, died on Sunday after falling 10,000 feet while climbing the Cima Payer in the Adamello mountains, near the Italian-Swiss border. The experienced mountaineer was navigating a challenging route equipped with fixed steel cables and ladders when he fell near the summit.
According to reports, another climber witnessed the accident and immediately called for help. Rescue teams responded promptly, but Longo was pronounced dead at the scene. His body was found approximately 700 feet into a gorge, highlighting the dangers of the challenging terrain.
Born in Rimini, Italy, in 1962, Longo graduated with a degree in political science. He embarked on a successful career in the automotive industry in 1987 when he joined Fiat, initially working in the marketing department. Over the years, Longo honed his skills and took on increasingly significant roles, eventually leading the Lancia brand in 2002. His expertise and leadership were recognized when he joined Audi in 2012. By 2013, he had risen to head Audi’s operations in Italy, where he played a pivotal role in maintaining the brand’s dominance in the premium automotive segment for over a decade.
An Audi spokesperson described Longo as “a person of great integrity, culture, capability, and sensitivity.” The spokesperson highlighted that Longo’s strong values and sincere concern for everyone fostered a workplace characterized by warmth and respect.
Longo’s influence extended beyond the automotive industry. He was well-regarded within the winter sports community, having formed a close relationship with the International Ski and Snowboard Federation. The federation issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over his death, with its president, Flavio Roda, describing Longo’s passing as a significant loss for the organization, which had enjoyed many years of fruitful collaboration with him. Roda emphasized the impact Longo had on their joint projects, reflecting his commitment to excellence both in business and in his personal passions.
Longo’s body was transported to the nearby town of Carisolo, Italy, where local authorities have launched an investigation into the accident. His death has significantly impacted the automotive industry and the mountaineering community, where he was highly respected for his expertise and passion.