The Epstein storm could also touch the world of Formula 1. In recent days, a series of articles and investigative reports have resurfaced emails, contacts, and alleged invitations to parties connected to Jeffrey Epstein’s network, with references implicating high-profile figures in the United Arab Emirates. Among the names mentioned is Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, a prominent figure in business and sports, who, according to Wikipedia and other sources, is the brother of FIA president Mohammed Ben Sulayem.
According to Dropsite News, exchanges of messages and contacts appear to link Sultan bin Sulayem to Epstein, including events organized in Abu Dhabi around the time of the Formula 1 Grand Prix. It is crucial to emphasize: these are journalistic allegations, supported by official emails available on the U.S. Department of Justice website, not court judgments. Nevertheless, the context and the names involved make the situation highly sensitive.
The story becomes more concrete with an excerpt from the Dropsite News investigation, referencing an email sent by Epstein in March 2007 following a meeting between the two. In the message, Epstein wrote to bin Sulayem:
“Hope you had fun, I am glad to have you as my friend, you are the only person I have met who is as crazy as me.”
According to the article, in the same conversation the two discussed the possibility of partying together at future meetings—a detail that raises questions and discomfort, especially considering the locations and timeframes mentioned.
Sultan Sulayem’s connection to McLaren and Mohamed Ben
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem’s profile is far from marginal in the F1 world. As CEO of DP World, a global logistics and port infrastructure giant, he is indirectly linked to Formula 1 through major sponsorship deals. DP World is one of McLaren’s primary commercial partners, as confirmed by public communications and official posts on bin Sulayem’s professional social media accounts.
The situation is further complicated by family ties: Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem is, as mentioned, the brother of Mohammed Ben Sulayem, the current FIA president. While this does not imply direct responsibility, it inevitably raises institutional and reputational questions, particularly at a time when Formula 1 governance is already under scrutiny.
In recent years, Formula 1 has heavily invested in commercial expansion and its global image. Now, it faces potential exposure to a reputational storm. The mere association of a key sponsor and figures close to regulatory leadership with the Epstein case could generate media pressure and demands for clarification.
As of now, no official statements have been issued by the FIA or any other involved parties. However, history shows that when such cases enter the public debate, silence is rarely sufficient. The sense is that if new evidence or documented confirmations emerge, Formula 1 may have to confront yet another highly uncomfortable chapter.
Feb 5, 2026Sofia Bianchi
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