Christophe Leribault expected to lead the Louvre as leadership reshuffle unfolds

Wednesday 25 February 2026 - 10:30

By: Sahili Aya

Christophe Leribault expected to lead the Louvre as leadership reshuffle unfolds

France’s cultural sector is preparing for a major leadership transition as Christophe Leribault, current president of the Château de Versailles, is widely expected to become the next head of the Louvre Museum.

The appointment is expected to be reviewed during the weekly Council of Ministers meeting, following the resignation of Laurence des Cars earlier this week. According to sources close to the executive branch, Leribault has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of the Paris-based institution, one of the most visited museums in the world.

An art historian aged 63, Leribault has led Versailles since 2024, where he succeeded Catherine Pégard. During his tenure, he has overseen heritage preservation programs and modernization initiatives aimed at balancing conservation with growing visitor demand. If confirmed, he will be tasked with steering the Louvre through a period of institutional and operational challenges.

Among his priorities would be advancing the museum’s long-term transformation plan, often referred to as a “new renaissance,” focused on security upgrades, infrastructure modernization and strategic development. The Louvre has faced heightened scrutiny in recent months following security concerns and broader debates over museum management and visitor capacity.

In a parallel move, Annick Lemoine, currently director of the Petit Palais, has been appointed to head the Musée d’Orsay and the Musée de l’Orangerie. She succeeds Sylvain Amic, who passed away in 2025. Officials indicated that the timing of the announcement was carefully considered to ensure stability within the institution.

The French presidency expressed confidence that both Leribault and Lemoine would continue the policies initiated by their predecessors while bringing renewed vision and stability to their respective institutions. The appointments mark a significant moment for France’s leading museums as they navigate evolving expectations in heritage management, public engagement and international cultural influence.