The Epstein storm could also brush up against Formula 1. In recent hours, a series of articles and journalistic reconstructions have brought back to light contacts, emails and alleged invitations to parties linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s network, with references involving high-profile circles in the United Arab Emirates. Among the names mentioned is Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, a leading figure in the economic and sporting world, and (as confirmed by Wikipedia and other references) the brother of FIA president Mohamed Ben Sulayem.
According to what was published by Dropsite News, message exchanges and contacts would emerge that link Sultan bin Sulayem to Epstein, including events organised in Abu Dhabi at the same time as the Formula 1 Grand Prix. It must be stated clearly: these are journalistic allegations, supported by official emails available on the website of the United States Department of Justice, not court rulings; however, the context and the names involved make the matter extremely sensitive.
Making the picture more concrete is an excerpt reported from Dropsite News’ investigation, relating to an email sent by Epstein in March 2007 after 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.” (I hope you had fun, I am glad to have you as my friend, you are the only person I have ever met who is as crazy as me.)
According to the article, in the same conversation the two would have discussed the possibility of partying together on the occasion of subsequent meetings— a detail that helps fuel questions and embarrassment, especially in light of the places and timeframes cited.
Sultan Sulayem’s link to McLaren and Mohamed Ben
Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem’s profile is not marginal for the paddock. As CEO of DP World, a global logistics and port-infrastructure giant, he is also indirectly tied to Formula 1 through major sponsorships. DP World is in fact one of McLaren’s main commercial partners, as also confirmed by public communications and official posts on professional social platforms by bin Sulayem himself.
Adding another layer of delicacy is the family connection: Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, as already mentioned, is indicated as the brother of Mohamed Ben Sulayem, the current FIA president. A detail that, while implying no direct responsibility, inevitably raises questions on an institutional and reputational level—especially at a time when Formula 1 governance is already under scrutiny.
Formula 1, which in recent years has invested heavily in its commercial expansion and global image, thus finds itself potentially exposed to a reputational storm. The mere fact that the name of a key sponsor and figures close to the top of the regulatory body are being associated with the Epstein case risks triggering media pressure and demands for clarification.
At the moment there appear to be no official statements either from the FIA or from other parties involved. But recent history shows that, when certain stories enter the public debate, silence is rarely enough. The sense is that, if new elements or documentary confirmations emerge, Formula 1 may be forced to come to terms with yet another highly uncomfortable chapter.
Cover photo www.tradewindsnews.com
Read also: FIA Foundation under investigation: doubts over governance and conflicts of interest
