Canadian former Olympic snowboarder and alleged drug kingpin, Ryan Wedding, is at the center of a major international bust that has netted $40 million worth of rare motorcycles. The seizure includes high-end bikes ridden by top MotoGP racers.
Key Takeaways
- $40M in superbikes seized from Wedding’s network, part of an ongoing drug case
- FBI and Mexican police worked with RCMP and LAPD on the operation
- The bikes include championship-winning machines like Rossi’s 125cc Aprilia and Marquez’s Moto2 bike
Wedding was once a promising athlete but now faces serious charges for allegedly running an international drug ring. The latest seizure follows last month’s confiscation of Wedding’s $13 million Mercedes-Benz CLK-GTR.
The bikes seized in the operation range from Ducatis ridden by MotoGP legends like Rossi and Lorenzo to more obscure models such as Capirossi’s and Iannone’s race machines. These aren’t just any motorcycles; they’re highly sought-after pieces of racing history.
What makes this seizure particularly noteworthy is its scale and the involvement of multiple law enforcement agencies from different countries, highlighting the international nature of Wedding’s alleged activities. The bikes have been linked to a network that extends across North America and into Mexico.
The Mercedes CLK-GTR seized earlier was one of just six roadster versions ever built, making it extremely rare in automotive circles. Now this motorcycle seizure shows how deeply involved Wedding is with high-end collectibles tied to his alleged criminal activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are these seized motorcycles worth?
The bikes, which include championship-winning machines and rare race models, have an estimated value of $40 million. Each bike has unique historical significance in the world of motorcycle racing.
What’s next for Ryan Wedding?
Wedding remains on the FBI’s Most Wanted list with a reward of up to $15 million. He faces serious charges and is likely under increased scrutiny from law enforcement across North America.
This seizure underscores how high-end collectibles can be used in criminal activities, drawing attention to the need for stricter regulations on luxury items involved in international crime networks.
