Louvre Director Resigns Amidst Ongoing Scrutiny After Crown Jewels Theft

Paris – Laurence des Cars, director of the Louvre Museum, has resigned following months of controversy stemming from the October 19th theft of crown jewels. The resignation was accepted by President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, according to a statement from the Élysée Palace.

Resignation Accepted, New Role Within G7 Presidency

The Élysée Palace described des Cars’ resignation as “an act of responsibility” during a period requiring “tranquility and a strong new impulse” for the Louvre’s ongoing safety and modernization projects, including the “Louvre – Nouvelle Renaissance” project. Despite the resignation, des Cars will appear before parliament on Wednesday to answer questions regarding the theft, but will do so in her capacity as former director.

President Macron has appointed des Cars to a position within the French presidency of the G7, focusing on cooperation between major museums in participating countries.

Parliamentary Scrutiny and Criticism

The resignation comes after a four-month period of scrutiny following the robbery. Minister of Culture Rachida Dati recently appeared before the parliamentary commission investigating the incident, ahead of her campaign for mayor of Paris (voting on March 15 and 22). The commission has until May 2026 to complete its investigation and present its conclusions.

Alexandre Portier, president of the commission, and Alexis Corbière, the rapporteur, have been critical of the Louvre’s management following the theft. Portier stated on February 19th that the Louvre had “become a state within a state” and that the Ministry of Culture must regain control. He previously suggested that similar failures in other institutions would have already led to resignations.

Director Addresses Difficult Months

In a recent interview with Le Figaro, des Cars discussed the challenges she faced during her tenure. She stated that the “dynamic of modernization” she initiated since taking office in September 2021 could no longer be completed. “Remaining would signify managing what already exists, while the Louvre needs to continue its transformation,” she explained.

Des Cars also described the intense media and political backlash following the October 19th theft. “I submitted my resignation immediately, which was immediately refused. The Minister of Culture asked me to hold the helm in the storm, which I did. I went through this period maintaining, I believe, cold blood. I learned a lot in what was also a lonely time. I tried to protect the institution, to fight fake news and unfounded rumors. I was the president, my role was to act as a lightning rod.”

Future of the Louvre’s Modernization Project

The Louvre’s modernization project, launched by President Macron, includes structural perform, a new entrance, and a dedicated exhibition space for the Mona Lisa. The project is estimated to cost over one billion euros, but funding has not yet been fully secured and work has not begun. A new director is expected to be announced in the coming days.