A new era begins at the Louvre as Christophe Leribault is named director, taking the helm after Laurence des Cars’s resignation amid a string of crises.

Leribault, who currently leads the Palace of Versailles with an annual budget around €170 million, brings experience managing major national monuments and large operations.

His appointment aims to address critical issues including the high-profile October jewel heist valued at about $102 million, ongoing staff strikes, water leaks, and a decade-long ticket-fraud probe involving more than €10 million.

The $102 million jewel theft remains unsolved, underscoring serious security gaps revealed by the incident.

Repairs will be undertaken on Empress Eugénie’s crown, damaged during the raid.

The Louvre renovation plan, estimated at €700–€800 million, is to be funded by ticket revenue, state support, donations, and Louvre Abu Dhabi income, with a timeline extending up to ten years.

Ongoing challenges include water damage from leaks, aging facilities, staff walkouts over overcrowding and understaffing, and rising ticket prices that affect non-European visitors.

The article will be updated as new information becomes available.

In October, four men stole pieces of the crown jewels valued at €88 million in material terms; none have been recovered, fueling criticism and negative publicity.

The Louvre remains one of the world’s most-visited museums, drawing about nine million visitors annually, with security and renovation upgrades ongoing after the theft.

Beyond the heist, authorities are probing a decade-long ticket fraud estimated at over €10 million, intensifying pressure for new leadership and security upgrades.

Since the theft, the Louvre has pursued the major renovation project titled Louvre — New Renaissance, with leadership focused on accelerating improvements.