From Olympic Glory to FBI’s Most Wanted: Inside the $40 Million Motorcycle Seizure Linked to Ryan Wedding
The FBI Los Angeles released an image on Dec. 29, 2025, of seized motorcycles it said were believed to belong to the fugitive Ryan Wedding. @FBILosAngeles/X
The dramatic fall of Ryan Wedding, once an Olympic snowboarder representing Canada, has taken another turn after the FBI released images of dozens of seized luxury motorcycles believed to belong to the fugitive. Authorities estimate the collection’s value at $40 million, underscoring the scale of the alleged criminal empire tied to the former athlete.
Wedding, now 44, is currently listed on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives roster and is accused of running a vast transnational drug trafficking network spanning Colombia, Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
FBI Releases Images of High-Value Motorcycle Collection
On December 29, 2025, the FBI Los Angeles Field Office published photos of dozens of high-end motorcycles seized earlier this month by Mexican authorities. According to investigators, the motorcycles were recovered during coordinated raids on four properties located in Mexico City and the State of Mexico.
Mexican officials initially announced the seizure without naming Wedding, referring only to a “former Olympic athlete.” The FBI later confirmed the assets were believed to belong to Ryan Wedding, making the seizure one of the most high-profile asset recoveries tied to a fugitive on the FBI’s most wanted list.
International Operation Across Three Countries
The seizure followed a multi-agency international collaboration involving the FBI, Los Angeles Police Department, Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Mexican authorities. Officials described the operation as a success in strengthening cross-border cooperation against organized crime.
In addition to motorcycles, authorities recovered two vehicles, artwork, drugs, and two Olympic medals, according to Mexico’s Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection.
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Allegations of a Global Drug Trafficking Network
Federal prosecutors allege that Wedding orchestrated a major cocaine trafficking operation, moving drugs from Colombia through Mexico and Southern California, before distributing them into Canada and other international markets.
Wedding was indicted last year in Los Angeles federal court on multiple charges, including:
- Running a continuing criminal enterprise
- Drug trafficking offenses
- Murder connected to a criminal enterprise
In November 2025, prosecutors announced additional charges alleging that Wedding ordered the killing of a witness in the federal case. The victim was reportedly shot multiple times at a restaurant in Colombia earlier this year.
FBI Believes Ryan Wedding Is in Mexico
U.S. authorities believe Wedding is currently hiding in Mexico and may be receiving protection from the Sinaloa cartel, one of the most powerful drug trafficking organizations in the world.
The U.S. Department of State is offering a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to Wedding’s arrest and conviction, making it one of the largest bounties currently available.
A Cautionary Tale of Fame and Crime
Wedding’s transformation from Olympic athlete to alleged drug kingpin has stunned both sports and law-enforcement communities. His case highlights how global crime networks increasingly rely on international assets, luxury goods, and secrecy to operate beyond borders.
Despite the mounting evidence and high-profile seizures, Wedding remains at large, and authorities continue urging the public to come forward with information.
FAQ
Who is Ryan Wedding?
Ryan Wedding is a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who later became an alleged transnational drug trafficker. He is now on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list.
Why is Ryan Wedding wanted by the FBI?
Wedding is accused of leading a large-scale cocaine trafficking operation and is charged with drug crimes, running a criminal enterprise, and murder linked to that enterprise.
What was seized by authorities in Mexico?
Mexican authorities seized 62 high-end motorcycles, two vehicles, artwork, drugs, and two Olympic medals believed to belong to Wedding.
How much are the seized motorcycles worth?
The FBI estimates the motorcycles alone are worth approximately $40 million.
Is Ryan Wedding in custody?
No. Wedding remains at large. Authorities believe he is hiding in Mexico.
Is there a reward for information on Ryan Wedding?
Yes. The U.S. State Department is offering up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest or conviction.
What cartel is Ryan Wedding allegedly linked to?
Investigators believe Wedding may be receiving protection from the Sinaloa cartel, though this has not been adjudicated in court.
Has Ryan Wedding been convicted?
No. Wedding has been indicted, but he has not been tried or convicted. He is presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
