Vidal, crowned French national champion in 2009, 2011 and 2012, made his Olympic debut at Beijing 2008 where he finished in 36th place but built on that performance, coming fifth at London 2012.

He was forced to retire in 2014 after suffering a cardiopulmonary arrest during a swimming training session and following his recovery he began coaching his fiancée Andrea Hewitt of New Zealand, as well as several top French athletes.

Reflecting on the news Philippe Lescure, President of the French Triathlon Federation, paid tribute to Vidal and stated his example “will continue to enlighten generations of triathletes and athletes”.

"It is with shock and great emotion that I learned this morning of the sudden death of Laurent Vidal,” Lescure said.

“Laurent, throughout his remarkable sporting career displayed a tenacity, unwavering will and he embodied the best of what an athlete wearing the colours of his country can represent.”

Vidal was also a multiple World Triathlon Series and World Cup medallist during his career, while he acted as an Athlete Representative on the International Triathlon Union’s Executive Board.

French President François Hollande joined also paid tribute to Vidal describing him as “a great champion” while ITU President Marisol Casado also expressed her sadness on hearing of his death.

“Laurent was an unforgettable presence, touching the lives of anyone who met him with his positive outlook and incredible energy,” she 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.”

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