In a stunning conclusion to one of the FBI’s highest-profile manhunts, former Canadian Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding has been arrested. Once known for shredding the slopes at the 2002 Winter Olympics, Wedding had transformed into what authorities describe as a “modern-day Pablo Escobar,” allegedly running a violent, transnational drug trafficking empire.
This post details the breaking news of his capture, the severity of the charges, and how an elite athlete ended up on the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted list.
Ryan Wedding Arrested: The FBI Operation
On Thursday, January 23, 2026, federal authorities confirmed that Ryan Wedding was apprehended in Mexico City. The arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between the FBI, US Department of Justice, and Mexican authorities.
FBI Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the capture, marking a major victory for international law enforcement. Wedding, who had been on the run for years, was the subject of a massive $15 million reward—one of the largest bounties in FBI history.
Authorities reportedly utilized elite units, including the FBI’s Hostage Rescue Team, to execute the “zero-margin, high-risk” operation. Following his arrest, Wedding was immediately flown to the United States to face federal charges.
“He went from an Olympic snowboarder to the largest narco trafficker in modern times.” > — FBI Director Kash Patel
The Charges: Murder, Cocaine, and Cartels
The allegations against Ryan Wedding are nothing short of shocking. Prosecutors paint a picture of a ruthless crime boss who operated under aliases like “El Jefe” and “Public Enemy.”
According to the indictment unsealed in the Central District of California, Wedding is facing charges for:
- Running a Continuing Criminal Enterprise: Leading a billion-dollar operation dubbed the “Wedding Criminal Enterprise.”
- Drug Trafficking: Transporting tons of cocaine from Colombia, through Mexico and California, into Canada and the US using long-haul semi-trucks.
- Murder and Retaliation: Wedding is accused of ordering multiple contract killings. This includes the murders of two innocent family members in Ontario, Canada, over a stolen drug shipment, and the execution of a federal witness in Colombia to prevent testimony.
Connection to the Sinaloa Cartel
Intelligence suggests Wedding didn’t work alone. His organization allegedly operated under the protection of the notorious Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico. This alliance allowed his network to move massive quantities of narcotics across North America with terrifying efficiency.
From Salt Lake City to “Most Wanted”
How did a Canadian Olympian break bad?
Ryan Wedding represented Canada in the Parallel Giant Slalom at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, finishing 24th. While his athletic career showed promise, his life took a dark turn shortly after the games.
- 2008: Wedding was first convicted in the US for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and served four years in prison.
- 2015: After his release, he reportedly returned to criminal activity, facing new charges in Canada before fleeing the country.
- 2024-2025: The FBI designated him a fugitive. As the violence associated with his network escalated, he was added to the FBI Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in 2025.
His downfall from an elite athlete to a fugitive hiding in Mexico is being described as one of the most dramatic falls from grace in sports history.
What Happens Next?
Now in US federal custody, Ryan Wedding faces a legal battle that could result in a life sentence.
- Extradition and Trial: Having been flown to the US, he is expected to make his initial court appearance in Los Angeles.
- Co-Conspirators: The investigation is ongoing. Authorities have already arrested over a dozen associates, including his alleged second-in-command, Andrew Clark.
- Asset Seizure: The FBI has seized millions in assets, including luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and property linked to the drug ring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Ryan Wedding?
Ryan Wedding is a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who competed in the 2002 Winter Games. He later became a fugitive alleged to be running a major international drug trafficking organization.
Was Ryan Wedding arrested?
Yes. As of January 23, 2026, Ryan Wedding has been arrested by the FBI in Mexico and is currently in US custody.
What did Ryan Wedding do?
He is accused of orchestrating a billion-dollar cocaine smuggling ring and ordering the murders of at least four people, including a witness and innocent civilians.
What was the reward for Ryan Wedding?
The FBI had offered a reward of up to $15 million for information leading to his arrest.
Conclusion
The arrest of Ryan Wedding sends a clear message: no matter how fast you run or how high your profile, the reach of international law enforcement is extensive. As the legal proceedings begin, the world will learn more about how an Olympian became one of the FBI’s most dangerous targets.
