From Olympic Snowboarder to alleged narco Kingpin: The rise, fall and arrest of Ryan Wedding
New photo released of Ryan Wedding, former Olympic snowboarder wanted by FBI. Image Credit: FBI
Once celebrated as one of Canada’s most promising snowboarders, Ryan Wedding is now at the centre of one of the most extraordinary crime cases in recent Canadian history. The former Olympian, who competed on the world stage in the early 2000s, is now accused by U.S. authorities of masterminding a vast and violent international drug trafficking empire.
Wedding’s arrest in Mexico after nearly a decade on the run has reignited public fascination with his dramatic transformation, from a snowboard-loving teenager in suburban British Columbia to an alleged cocaine kingpin compared to Pablo Escobar and El Chapo.
Early Life in Coquitlam and Olympic Promise
Ryan Wedding grew up in Coquitlam, British Columbia, where he attended Centennial High School, graduating in 1999. Former classmates and teammates remember him as confident, outgoing and fiercely competitive.
He joined the Canadian Snowboard Team as a teenager and quickly rose through the ranks. Wedding won medals at Junior World Championships, became a regular on the World Cup circuit, and claimed the Canadian national title in 2001. His success earned him a spot at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, competing in the newly introduced parallel giant slalom event.
Though he failed to advance beyond the qualification round, expectations for his future in the sport were high.
Sudden End to a Snowboarding Career
Wedding’s competitive career ended abruptly in 2002 following a disappointing Olympic result and a final Did Not Finish (DNF) at the U.S. National Championships. According to former teammates, his departure from elite snowboarding was quiet and unceremonious.
In the years that followed, Wedding appeared to pursue a conventional path, enrolling at Simon Fraser University and working various jobs. However, authorities now say this period marked the beginning of a darker turn.
Criminal Allegations and FBI Indictments
According to U.S. FBI indictments, Wedding is accused of building a transnational drug trafficking organization responsible for moving massive quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine from Central and South America into Canada and the United States.
Prosecutors allege he orchestrated extreme violence to protect his network, including involvement in four murders, three of which occurred in Canada. The scale and brutality of the alleged operation prompted U.S. authorities to place a $15 million reward on information leading to his arrest.
Ironically, the FBI named its pursuit of Wedding “Operation Giant Slalom,” a direct reference to his Olympic past.
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Years on the Run and Arrest in Mexico
Wedding evaded capture for nearly a decade, moving across borders and allegedly using false identities. His case became the subject of widespread speculation, misinformation and even viral hoaxes on social media.
In early 2026, authorities confirmed Wedding was arrested in Mexico City and transferred into U.S. custody. He has since pleaded not guilty to charges including drug trafficking, murder, money laundering and witness tampering.
His next court appearance is scheduled for February 11, where prosecutors are expected to outline the full scope of their case.
A Story That Captivated Canada and Beyond
Wedding’s downfall has become the subject of intense public interest and a forthcoming documentary series titled Snow King: From Olympian to Narco, co-produced by CBC.
Former teammates have expressed sadness rather than shock, describing Wedding as someone with enormous drive and intelligence that, left unchecked, was redirected into criminal ambition.
The case continues to raise difficult questions about identity, power, and how elite athletes navigate life after sport.
What Happens Next in the Ryan Wedding Case
Legal experts say Wedding faces the prospect of multiple life sentences if convicted in U.S. federal court. Authorities in both Canada and the U.S. continue to investigate the full reach of his alleged network, with additional charges not ruled out.
As the judicial process unfolds, Ryan Wedding’s name now stands as one of the most startling examples of a fallen sports figure in modern history.
FAQ
Who is Ryan Wedding?
Ryan Wedding is a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who competed at the 2002 Winter Olympics and is now accused of leading a major international drug trafficking organization.
Why was Ryan Wedding arrested?
U.S. authorities allege Wedding ran a violent narco-empire responsible for trafficking cocaine and methamphetamine and orchestrating multiple murders.
Where was Ryan Wedding captured?
Ryan Wedding was arrested in Mexico City after spending nearly ten years evading law enforcement.
What is Operation Giant Slalom?
Operation Giant Slalom is the FBI investigation named after Wedding’s Olympic discipline, aimed at dismantling his alleged criminal network.
Has Ryan Wedding pleaded guilty?
No. Wedding has pleaded not guilty to all charges and is awaiting further court proceedings in the United States.
Could Ryan Wedding face life in prison?
Yes. If convicted on all counts, legal experts say Wedding could face multiple life sentences under U.S. federal law.
Is there a documentary about Ryan Wedding?
Yes. A documentary series titled Snow King: From Olympian to Narco is currently in production, with CBC as a co-producer.