The release of millions of Jeffrey Epstein-related documents by the U.S. Department of Justice in early 2026 has once again brought scrutiny to the late financier’s extensive network. Among the newly unsealed emails, texts, and records are details of continued contacts between Epstein—who died in prison in 2019—and senior figures in Formula 1, soccer, and American football. These interactions persisted long after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor, raising questions about associations in the sports world. Importantly, being named in the Epstein files does not imply any wrongdoing or involvement in his criminal activities.
Formula 1 Connections: Todt and Briatore
Motorsport stands out with notable mentions. Jean Todt, former FIA president and Ferrari team principal during their dominant early 2000s era, visited Epstein’s New York home in 2017—nearly a decade after the conviction. Emails show Epstein apologizing for a short visit arranged via Norwegian diplomat Terje Rod-Larsen, with Todt responding positively and inviting future meetings in Paris or Geneva. Todt, now a United Nations special envoy for road safety, has been contacted for comment.
Flavio Briatore, current executive adviser and de-facto team principal at Alpine F1, also appears in post-conviction records. A 2010 email sought to connect him with Epstein, and later references describe him as “my Italian friend” in discussions involving aircraft purchases and property sales. Briatore’s representatives have been approached for response.
These F1 ties trace back to earlier introductions, highlighting how professional circles overlapped with Epstein’s orbit.
Soccer Executives: Ongoing Communications
In soccer, Crystal Palace investor Josh Harris—whose Apollo Global Management also owns the NFL’s Washington Commanders, NBA’s Philadelphia 76ers, and NHL’s New Jersey Devils—exchanged emails and phone calls with Epstein years after 2008. Records include a 2013 breakfast meeting and a 2016 message expressing willingness to catch up. A spokesperson for Harris stated he “never had an independent relationship” with Epstein and actively avoided deeper ties.
Chelsea co-owner and chairman Todd Boehly met Epstein twice in 2011, according to emails suggesting introductions related to his then-role with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Guggenheim Partners. Neither Boehly nor Chelsea has commented publicly.
Celtic majority shareholder Dermot Desmond was referenced in 2010 emails proposing multimillion-dollar golf resort funding partnerships. Celtic has been contacted regarding Desmond’s response.
NFL Owners Under Review
American football features prominently, particularly New York Giants co-owner Steve Tisch. Emails from the early 2010s show repeated complimentary exchanges, with Epstein offering introductions to women—including a 2013 query about bringing “the Russian” and Tisch asking if “she” was “fun.” Tisch stated the association involved discussions on movies, philanthropy, and investments, regretting any connection and denying visits to Epstein’s island. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell confirmed the league is examining the messages for policy compliance.
Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was linked indirectly through associate Andrew Farkas, who in 2016-2017 discussed property conditions and potential $100 million funding for Epstein-related projects. The Dolphins have been approached for comment.
Pre-Conviction Links to Ghislaine Maxwell
The files also document earlier interactions with Ghislaine Maxwell, convicted in 2021 for her role in Epstein’s crimes and serving a 20-year sentence. Casey Wasserman, chairman of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and founder of Wasserman agency, exchanged suggestive 2003 emails with Maxwell, later expressing deep regret for any association.
Former F1 driver Eddie Irvine received introductions via Maxwell in 2003 and has previously acknowledged attending social events hosted by the pair, describing them as normal gatherings without knowledge of illicit activities.
Summary of Key Sports Figures Mentioned
| Figure | Sport/Role | Nature of Contact Post-2008 | Response/Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jean Todt | F1 (former FIA president) | 2017 home visit, emails | Comment sought |
| Flavio Briatore | F1 (Alpine adviser) | 2010+ emails, references | Comment sought |
| Josh Harris | Soccer (Crystal Palace), NFL | Emails, calls, 2013 meeting | Denied independent relationship |
| Todd Boehly | Soccer (Chelsea) | 2011 meetings | No public comment |
| Steve Tisch | NFL (NY Giants co-owner) | Emails, introductions to women | Regrets association; NFL reviewing |
| Stephen Ross | NFL (Miami Dolphins) | Indirect funding discussions | Comment sought |
Broader Implications for Sports Leadership
These revelations underscore the wide-reaching influence Epstein wielded, even after his conviction. While no allegations of criminal involvement tie to these sports executives, the disclosures prompt reflection on due diligence in professional networks. Organizations like the NFL are taking formal steps to assess implications, balancing transparency with context.
The Epstein files continue to unfold layers of connections across industries, reminding the sports community—and beyond—of the importance of accountability long after initial scandals fade.
