Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1542400
FBI Seizes Kingpin's $40 Million Motorcycle Collection I nternational law enforcement agencies have seized an extraordinary collection of racing motorcycles linked to fugitive drug-trafficking suspect and former Olympian Ryan James Wed - ding, with the haul including Grand Prix machin- ery associated with some of MotoGP's most successful riders. The operation, led by Mexican authorities with support from U.S. and Canadian agencies, tar - geted multiple properties in the Mexico City area. Officials recovered dozens of high-value motor- cycles with an estimated combined worth ap- proaching $40 million. The collection is notable for its strong focus on modern prototype race bikes rather than conventional street machines. Among the seized motor - cycles were Ducati Desmosedici GP machines connected to for- mer MotoGP Champions Jorge Lorenzo and Andrea Dovizioso, as well as a Kalex Moto2 be- lieved to be associated with Marc Marquez. Authorities also identified an Aprilia RSW125 race bike. Several of the motor- cycles are understood to be ex- factory or ex-race machines built to full prototype specifications, featuring carbon-fi- ber chassis components, seamless transmissions and bespoke electronics systems. Images released by investigators show the motorcycles stored in pristine condition, many wearing authentic race liveries and equipped with components typically reserved for manufacturer- backed teams. Officials described the collection as highly specialized, reflecting deep access to elite-level racing equipment rarely seen outside professional competition. Wedding, a Canadian-born former Olympic snowboarder, is currently listed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives roster. Prosecutors allege he leads a transnational drug-trafficking organiza - tion responsible for moving large quantities of cocaine through Mexico and into North America. Authorities believe proceeds from those opera- tions were used to acquire luxury assets, including rare racing motorcycles, as part of an extensive money-laundering scheme. The seizure is part of an ongoing effort to dis- mantle the financial infrastructure supporting the alleged organization. Wedding remains at large, and law enforcement agencies continue to seek information regarding his whereabouts. CN WIND IN THE P42 An incredible array of racing history has been uncovered in a bizarre drug bust from a former Olympic snowboarder. Bikes ridden by Jorge Lorenzo, Freddie Spencer, Scott Russell, Valentino Rossi and many more were recently involved.