Christophe Leribault officially becomes president-director of the Louvre Museum in 2026, succeeding Laurence des Cars at the helm of the world’s most visited cultural institution. This appointment, decided by the Council of Ministers on the proposal of the French Ministry of Culture, marks a strategic turning point for the Louvre.
In a context marked by security concerns and structural transformation, the choice of Christophe Leribault aims to strengthen the museum’s governance, security framework and international influence.
Why the appointment of the new Louvre president is strategic
The appointment comes after the theft that occurred at the museum in October 2025, an event that sparked strong reactions across cultural and political circles.
In response to these tensions, the new president of the Louvre will need to:
- strengthen the security of the museum and its collections
- restore public and staff confidence
- lead a large-scale modernization program
- manage record levels of tourist attendance
The Louvre remains one of the most visited cultural sites in the world, welcoming several million visitors each year.
Christophe Leribault : an expert profile to lead the Louvre
An art historian, chief heritage curator and former director of the Musée d’Orsay, Christophe Leribault has built a strong reputation in the management of major cultural institutions.
Before his appointment to the Louvre, he headed the Public Establishment of the Palace of Versailles, where he led modernization projects, international exhibitions and initiatives to transform the visitor experience.
His expertise in heritage management, museum strategy and crisis leadership played a key role in his selection to head the Paris museum.
Louvre security and the “Nouvelle Renaissance” project
Among the new president’s priorities:
1. Security and safety
Strengthening security systems for the building, the artworks and visitors following the 2025 crisis.
2. Renovation and modernization
The “Louvre Nouvelle Renaissance” project includes:
- technical renovation of the museum
- new visitor routes
- improved visitor reception and services
- adaptation to massive tourist flows
3. International influence
Christophe Leribault will also be tasked with strengthening:
- international partnerships
- cooperation with the Louvre Abu Dhabi
- the Louvre’s position as a global cultural leader
FAQ — Appointment of Christophe Leribault as President of the Louvre
The new president-director of the Louvre Museum is Christophe Leribault. An art historian and chief heritage curator, he was appointed in 2026 by the Council of Ministers following a proposal from the French Ministry of Culture.
Since 2026, Christophe Leribault has been heading the Public Establishment of the Louvre Museum. He succeeds Laurence des Cars as the leader of the world’s most visited museum.
His appointment aims to strengthen security, modernization and the international influence of the Louvre. It comes at a strategic time for the museum, marked by major challenges related to safety, visitor numbers and institutional transformation.
Christophe Leribault is a heritage specialist and expert in 18th-century art history. He previously led the Musée d’Orsay and the Musée de l’Orangerie, and later headed the Public Establishment of the Palace of Versailles before being appointed president of the Louvre.
It is a major renovation and transformation program designed to improve artwork conservation, visitor experience and the museum’s capacity to handle increasing attendance.
Yes, the Louvre remains one of the most visited museums globally and a leading international reference for heritage, art history and cultural tourism.
The new president aims to reinforce security, modernize the museum, expand international partnerships and maintain the Louvre’s position as a global leader among cultural institutions.