FBI releases new photo of fugitive Ryan Wedding as ex Olympic snowboarder becomes America’s most wanted drug kingpin

A new photo of Ryan Wedding is now in public view as the FBI steps up its hunt for the former Olympic snowboarder turned global drug boss. The agency shared the photo on Tuesday while raising the reward for information that leads to his arrest to $15 million, the highest offer on its Ten Most Wanted list.The photo is believed to be a selfie taken last summer in Mexico. It shows Ryan Wedding shirtless, lying in bed, with a clear lion tattoo on his chest. FBI officials say the image was released to help the public recognize him and report any sightings.Ryan Wedding, once known for racing on snow, is now accused of leading a massive cocaine network tied to the Sinaloa Cartel, one of the most powerful drug groups in the world.

According to the FBI, he is linked to large drug shipments moving from Colombia through Mexico and into the United States and Canada. The agency says his operation caused violence across borders.

As pressure builds, the FBI says Wedding is not just wanted for drug crimes. Investigators allege he played a role in several murders. One case involved a married couple who were killed after being mistaken for someone else.

Another case involves federal witness Jonathan Acebedo Garcia, who was shot and killed inside a restaurant in Medellín, Colombia, on January 31, 2025, just days before he was expected to testify against Wedding.

Ryan Wedding’s fall from Olympic athlete to FBI’s most wanted suspect

Ryan James Wedding once represented Canada at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, competing in men’s parallel giant slalom snowboarding. After his sports career faded, U.S. authorities say he moved into the drug world and slowly built a powerful criminal network.Over time, investigators believe he became a top leader in an international cocaine ring, working closely with cartel members for protection and supply. The FBI says Wedding may be hiding in Mexico and is believed to move often to avoid capture. He is also known to use several aliases.In an official statement, the FBI urged anyone with information to come forward. The agency believes someone recognizes him and knows where he is. Officials say even small tips could help end the search.For the FBI, the new photo is more than just an image. It is a warning and a call for help, as agents work to stop a man they say left sports fame behind and chose a life of crime instead.Also Read: Anna Kournikova And Enrique Iglesias Combined Net Worth In 2025: Tennis Career, Music Earnings, Endorsements, Business And More