Former Team USA Skier TJ Lanning Dead At 41

Former United States alpine skier TJ Lanning has sadly died at the age of 41.

Lanning really put himself on the map in 2001 when he earned the No. 1 ranking for juniors in slalom and super-G. Six years later, he represented the U.S. at the World Championships in Sweden. Unfortunately, Lanning had to retire after suffering a fractured neck and left knee injury in a November 2009 crash.

While no information has been shared at this time, U.S. Ski & Snowboard confirmed Tuesday night that Lanning has died.

"We are deeply saddened by the passing of TJ Lanning, a former U.S. Ski Team alpine skier and coach whose impact on our sport went far beyond his years of competition," U.S. Ski & Snowboard said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with his family, friends and children during this difficult time."

Devastating loss for the U.S. skiing community.

After the news of Lanning's death was confirmed, countless people posted heartfelt messages about him on social media.

"TJ it was amazing to get to know you and call you a friend, till we meet again in the sky," one person said.

"I feel incredibly lucky to have known TJ through ski racing," a second person commented. "His smile lit up every ski hill he was on, and he brought so much energy to the people around him. Today our ski community has lost someone special. My heart is with his family, his children, and everyone who loved him."

"My heart breaks for his children. I had the pleasure of coaching one of them in one of our local programs," another person wrote. "He was genuinely just a great person."

Our thoughts are with Lanning's loved ones.

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This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 11:32 AM.