Louvre appoints new Director after jewel heist and resignation
Christophe Leribault has been named the new president-director of the Louvre Museum in Paris, following the resignation of Laurence des Cars amid fallout from a daring theft of France’s crown jewels.
Des Cars stepped down Tuesday, with President Emmanuel Macron praising her “act of responsibility” at a time when the world’s most visited museum requires “calm and strong new impetus” for security and modernization projects. The culture ministry confirmed Leribault’s appointment Wednesday.
His priority, according to the ministry, will be “strengthening the safety and security of the building, collections and people” while restoring public trust.
The leadership change follows October’s brazen heist, when thieves used a stolen mechanical lift to access the museum from a Seine-side balcony.
The eight-minute weekend break-in bypassed Louvre security, with des Cars later acknowledging “ageing” CCTV systems and budget challenges.
One camera covering the breached exterior wall pointed away from the Gallery of Apollo entry point.
While four suspects have been arrested, eight prized jewels including a Napoleon-era diamond and emerald necklace remain missing, valued at over €88 million.
A preliminary parliamentary report cited “systemic failures” enabling the theft, with final findings expected in May.
The museum has since faced additional challenges, including suspected ticket fraud and a water leak.
