Audi Italy Boss Fabrizio Longo Dies in Tragic Climb: A Look at His Legacy
The 62-year-old head of operations of Audi Fabrizio Longo tragically fell to his death while climbing Cima Payer in the Adamello mountains near the Italian-Swiss border. Longo an avid mountain climber was nearing the summit when the accident occurred.
A fellow climber witnessed the fall and immediately alerted rescue teams. They found Longo’s body 700 feet down a gorge. Despite being well-equipped with safety aids, including steel cables and ladders, Longo did not survive the fall. His body was airlifted to a hospital in Carisolo for further examination. An investigation into the circumstances of the accident is ongoing, and his family will announce funeral arrangements once the autopsy and other formalities are completed.
Born in Rimini, Italy in 1962, Longo graduated in political science before starting his career at Fiat in 1987. He later led the Lancia brand and joined Audi in 2012. By 2013, he became the director of Audi’s Italian operations, significantly contributing to the brand’s success in the premium segment.
An Audi spokesperson expressed deep sorrow over Longo’s passing, highlighting his impact on the company: “Fabrizio Longo led Audi Italy with tremendous success and dedication. His values, enthusiasm, and positive energy created a supportive and respectful workplace.”
Longo was a passionate environmental advocate and frequently visited the Adamello mountains, where he supported conservation efforts against climate change. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation also mourned his loss. Flavio Roda, the federation’s head, described Longo’s death as a “terrible loss” and extended condolences to his family and Audi Italia.
