A shocking theft has rocked the motorsport world as the iconic statue of Formula 1 and Ferrari legend Gilles Villeneuve was stolen from outside his namesake museum in Berthierville, Quebec.
The statue, a 1.6-meter bronze tribute that had stood proudly for nearly 40 years, was reportedly taken overnight on November 6 by at least two individuals using heavy equipment and a large truck.
Thieves left only the statue’s boots, severed at the ankles, sparking fears it could be melted down or sold on the black market.
Villeneuve’s son, former F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve, expressed his deep sadness and frustration on social media, condemning the act as “heartless and inhuman.” In an emotional message, Jacques shared his disbelief, stating, “Gilles represented Canada and Quebec on the world stage. To steal his monument… it’s disgraceful.”
Local authorities are intensifying efforts to locate the statue, offering a substantial reward of CA$12,000 (approximately £6,700 or $8,600 USD) for its safe return with no questions asked.
The Gilles Villeneuve Museum, a cherished site for fans of the legendary driver, houses a collection of his racing memorabilia, drawing around 5,000 visitors annually. The statue’s theft has left a void in this historic landmark and sparked an outpouring of support from the motorsport community
The Villeneuve family and local officials are urging anyone with information to come forward to help recover this important piece of motorsport heritage.