Christophe Leribault Named to Lead the Louvre After Des Cars’ Resignation

Overview

• Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon announced Leribault’s appointment, confirming his move from Versailles to replace Laurence des Cars.
• President Emmanuel Macron accepted Des Cars’ resignation and assigned her a G7-related mission focused on cooperation among major museums.
• The new director is tasked with reinforcing security, restoring trust, and delivering the multiyear 'Louvre – Nouvelle Renaissance' overhaul, budgeted at roughly €700–800 million.
• The October 19, 2025 raid stole eight crown jewels from the Galerie d’Apollo in about seven minutes using a cargo access and smashed display cases, and the pieces remain missing.
• Ongoing strains include a suspected ticket‑fraud scheme with nine detentions on February 13, water leaks that damaged works, gallery closures, overcrowding, and staff strikes.