The FBI has revealed that a stunning collection of luxury motorcycles, artwork, and personal medals—valued in the tens of millions—was seized last month in Mexico in connection with one of Canada's most notorious fugitives.
Multi-Million Dollar Seizure in Mexico
This week, the FBI's Los Angeles field office released photographs of items confiscated by Mexican authorities during coordinated raids in late November. The operation targeted four properties in Mexico City and the State of Mexico. According to a joint statement from Mexican agencies, the actions were "related to a former Olympic athlete and one of the 10 most wanted fugitives by U.S. authorities."
While the statement did not name the individual, the description points directly to Ryan James Wedding, a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who now occupies a spot on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list. The FBI estimates the haul of 62 high-end motorcycles alone is worth approximately US$40 million, or nearly $55 million Canadian.
A Trove of Luxury Bikes and Memorabilia
The seized motorcycle collection is a centerpiece of the investigation. It includes several models from the premium Italian manufacturer Ducati, a brand celebrated globally for its cutting-edge design and high-performance race engines. The sheer scale and value of the collection underscore the alleged illicit wealth accumulated by Wedding since his departure from competitive sports.
Beyond the vehicles, agents also seized two gold medals. Images shared by the FBI indicate they are awards from the Canadian National Snowboard Series, not from the Olympic Games. Wedding represented Canada in snowboarding at the 2002 Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he placed 24th in the giant slalom event.
The FBI's social media post also showcased four pieces of artwork taken during the raids. One piece features iconic motorcycle racer Valentino Rossi, identifiable by his famous number 46 and sponsors. Another depicts a figure with a large sombrero and crossed rifles, while the remaining two are pop-art prints of collectible toys and candy.
From Olympian to Alleged Narco Boss
Ryan Wedding's trajectory from national athlete to an internationally sought-after fugitive is a dramatic fall from grace. After his Olympic career, he is alleged by U.S. and Canadian authorities to have become a significant figure in transnational drug trafficking. The recent seizures in Mexico provide a tangible glimpse into the lavish lifestyle purportedly funded by these activities.
This seizure marks a significant development in the international manhunt for Wedding. The collaboration between Mexican law enforcement and the FBI demonstrates the ongoing, multi-jurisdictional effort to dismantle his alleged criminal network and locate the fugitive himself. Previous reporting has detailed how Wedding's organization allegedly relied on complex logistics, including truck drivers, to move illicit goods.
The investigation continues, with authorities analyzing the seized assets for further evidence. Wedding remains at large, with the FBI continuing to seek information leading to his capture.
