Audi boss Fabrizio Longo dies in hiking accident in Italy

Fabrizio Longo, the 62-year-old director of Audi Italy, tragically died in a hiking accident on a 10,000ft mountain in the Adamello range. The incident occurred on a Sunday when he was climbing the Cima Payer alone, a peak he was familiar with due to his frequent visits to the region. A fellow climber witnessed the fall and alerted rescue teams, but unfortunately, Longo was pronounced dead at the scene after being located by a helicopter team. Born in Rimini in 1962, Longo had a degree in political science and began his career in the automotive industry at Fiat in 1987. He held various positions, including leading the Lancia brand, before joining Audi in 2012. His leadership at Audi Italy, which began in 2013, was marked by a commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness, reflecting his passion for the natural beauty of the Adamello mountains. Longo was known for his dedication to winter sports, fostering partnerships between Audi and various sporting organizations. His contributions to the industry and the sports community were recognized by Flavio Roda, president of the International Ski and Snowboard Federation, who expressed deep sorrow over his passing. The Italian Prosecutor's Office has initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident. As the family awaits the release of his body for funeral arrangements, the loss of Longo is felt deeply within both the automotive and sports communities, highlighting the impact of his leadership and the tragic nature of his untimely death.