In a shocking theft that has left motorsport fans and the Villeneuve family heartbroken, the iconic statue of Formula 1 legend Gilles Villeneuve has been stolen from outside the Gilles Villeneuve Museum in Berthierville, Quebec. The bronze statue, which stood as a tribute to the Ferrari hero for nearly 40 years, was forcibly removed late on November 6 or early on November 7, leaving only the severed metal boots in its place.
The brazen act, believed to be carried out by at least two individuals with heavy equipment and a large truck, has sparked fears that the monument may be melted down for scrap or sold on the black market. The Villeneuve family, particularly Gilles’ son and 1997 F1 champion Jacques Villeneuve, expressed profound outrage. Jacques, in a heartfelt Instagram video, slammed the perpetrators as “inhuman” and “soulless.”
“Gilles represented Canada and Quebec on the international stage. There aren’t many like him,” Jacques lamented. “To steal a monument like this… it’s disgraceful. I don’t understand what goes through people’s minds or hearts, if they even have one.”
The statue commemorated Gilles Villeneuve, a fearless competitor who tragically lost his life during qualifying for the 1982 Belgian Grand Prix. His daring driving style, six victories for Ferrari, and heroic spirit left an indelible mark on the sport. Positioned outside the museum on Rue Gilles Villeneuve, the statue had become a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide.
To aid in the recovery, a reward of $12,000 CAD ($8,600 USD) has been offered, and authorities have stated the statue can be returned to any location in Berthierville, no questions asked. The Villeneuve family and local officials are urging anyone with information to come forward, emphasizing the monument’s cultural significance.
The Gilles Villeneuve Museum, home to a cherished collection of the driver’s memorabilia—including his cars, trophies, and racing suits—attracts thousands of fans each year. Now, the museum and its community are united in the hope that the statue of one of Formula 1’s greatest icons will soon be returned.
