French triathlete Laurent Vidal, who competed in two Olympic Games, has died at the age of 31, the International Triathlon Union (ITU) has confirmed.
The ITU said Vidal passed away in his sleep, with reports suggesting he suffered a heart attack.
Vidal competed at the Beijing and London games, finishing fifth in the latter in 2012.
He was forced to retire in 2014 after suffering a cardiopulmonary arrest and took on the role of athlete representative on the ITU Executive Board.
"Laurent was an unforgettable presence, touching the lives of anyone who met him with his positive outlook and incredible energy," ITU president Marisol Casado said.
"He was constantly coming up with new ideas to take our sport to the new level, pushing the envelope in everything he did whether it was training or coaching.
"We are so thankful for everything he did for triathlon and the memories shared. He's gone far, far too soon and will be missed."