LEGO owner KIRKBI A/S board member dies in skiing accident

Michael Halbye, vice chairman of the company that owns the LEGO Group, has been killed in a skiing accident in Switzerland.

KIRKBI A/S has issued a statement on LinkedIn confirming that the vice chairman of the company has been tragically killed in a skiing accident at the age of 64 in the Verbier region of Switzerland.

“It is with great sadness that we received the news of Michael’s sudden passing,” Chair of the board of LEGO A/S Thomas Kirk Kristiansen said. “Our thoughts and care go to Michael’s family and loved ones, who are now faced with having to process the unexpected loss of a man who in all facets of life has left a great and positive impression on those around him.

“We will miss Michael as Vice Chairman, but first and foremost as a person. May his memory be honored.”

Michael Halbye fell on the slopes while skiing, was airlifted to the hospital, but passed away shortly afterwards as a result of internal bleeding. 

“I have received with great sadness the news of Michael Halbye’s sudden death,” wrote Queen Mary of Denmark on the Mary Fonden website, reports The Independent.

“Michael Halbye was a man who possessed a rare positive energy, extensive knowledge and a strong commitment to making a difference for those outside the community. He was also my friend, and he will be missed by many. My thoughts go out to his family and close friends.”

Michael Halbye has been a member of KIRKBI’s board since 2020, and was elected deputy chairman in 2022. KIRKBI A/S owns 75% of the LEGO Group and is owned by the Kirk Kristiansen family, who founded the LEGO Group in 1932

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