Michael Halbye Accident: The LEGO Group is mourning the unexpected and tragic passing of Michael Halbye, a respected Vice President and cherished colleague, who died in a skiing accident in Denmark earlier this week. Michael’s sudden departure has left a profound void not only within the LEGO family but also in the broader business and creative communities where he was known as a visionary leader, a collaborative force, and a genuinely kind human being.
According to early reports, the accident occurred during a recreational skiing outing in a mountainous region of Denmark, where Michael, an experienced skier and outdoor enthusiast, was spending time with friends. Despite immediate rescue efforts and medical attention, Michael succumbed to injuries sustained during the accident. Authorities have not released further details at this time.
In an official statement, LEGO Group expressed deep sorrow over the loss:
“We are heartbroken to share that our colleague and friend, Michael Halbye, has passed away in a tragic skiing accident. Michael was a brilliant leader, a passionate innovator, and a warm, compassionate person who embodied the values of our company. His absence will be felt deeply across every corner of LEGO, and our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Michael Halbye had been with the LEGO Group for more than 15 years, rising through the ranks with his distinct blend of strategic insight, creative flair, and unwavering integrity. As Vice President, he played a critical role in shaping the company’s global strategy, leading teams with both precision and heart. His leadership was instrumental in fostering innovation, championing sustainability initiatives, and expanding LEGO’s global reach while preserving its core values of creativity, learning, and play.
Beyond his professional achievements, Michael was known for his humility, his mentorship, and his ability to connect deeply with those around him. Colleagues describe him as “the kind of leader who listened before he spoke,” someone who always had time to offer guidance, encouragement, or simply a moment of kindness in a busy day.
Born and raised in Denmark, Michael held an enduring passion for design, innovation, and the natural world. He studied business and engineering before finding his true calling at LEGO—a company that married his love for imaginative thinking with his deep respect for purposeful leadership. When not at work, Michael could often be found exploring the outdoors, skiing, cycling, or spending time with his family, who were the center of his world.
Michael is survived by his wife, Anna, and their three children, as well as his parents, siblings, and a wide circle of friends and extended family who are mourning his untimely loss. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, and a loyal friend, known for his warmth, wit, and genuine interest in others’ wellbeing.
A private funeral service will be held for family and close friends in the coming days, with plans for a public memorial to be announced by LEGO in the near future. The company has also established the Michael Halbye Memorial Fund, aimed at supporting young leaders in design and innovation—an initiative that honors Michael’s enduring legacy and his passion for inspiring the next generation.
In the words of a longtime colleague:
“Michael was not just a part of LEGO—he was part of its heart. His impact will live on in the countless lives he touched, the ideas he brought to life, and the values he championed every day.”
Michael Halbye’s passing is a reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of leadership driven by compassion and purpose. His legacy will live on—in the halls of LEGO, in the hearts of his loved ones, and in the countless innovations his influence helped shape.