Bill Gates apologizes for his association with Epstein, says he did nothing illegal

February 25, 2026

New Delhi: Bill Gates called his former relationship with notorious financial tycoon Jeffrey Epstein a “big mistake” and apologized for it.

According to a report in the American newspaper The Wall Street Journal, Gates said he “did nothing illegal” and never spent time with Epstein’s victims.

Relationships with Russian Women and the Epstein Files

During a town hall meeting, Gates admitted to having relationships with two Russian women—one a bridge player and the other a nuclear scientist. He said Epstein was aware of these relationships, but they had no connection to Epstein’s victims.

Gates’ name also appeared in documents recently released by the United States Department of Justice, known as the “Epstein Files.” These documents include emails, photos, interview transcripts, and call logs.

Meetings continued despite his wife’s objections

Gates stated that he first met Epstein in 2011, even though Epstein had been convicted of soliciting prostitution from a minor in 2008. Gates admitted that he did not properly investigate Epstein’s background.

He also admitted that his ex-wife, Melinda French Gates, expressed concerns about the relationship in 2013, but he continued to meet with Epstein until 2014. However, he stated that he never visited Epstein’s private island or spent the night there.

Impact on the Gates Foundation’s image

Gates acknowledged that the controversy had impacted the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s reputation. He stated, “It is completely contrary to the Foundation’s values, and the reputation of our work is extremely important.”

Notably, Epstein died in a New York prison in August 2019, after facing federal sex trafficking charges.