Bill Gates has made a significant admission. He confirmed extramarital affairs with two Russian women. This happened during his marriage. He also apologized for his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The revelations came during a staff meeting. Gates addressed employees of the Gates Foundation. The meeting occurred on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The Wall Street Journal reported these details.
Admitting to Extramarital Relationships
Gates confessed to the affairs directly. He identified one woman as a Russian bridge player. He met her at bridge events. The second woman was a Russian nuclear physicist. He encountered her through business activities. These relationships occurred during his 27-year marriage. His ex-wife is Melinda French Gates. Their divorce was finalized in 2021. Gates stated the affairs simply “did occur.” He called them a “huge mistake.” This admission is part of ongoing public scrutiny.
The Epstein Connection
The confessions are closely linked to Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein was a convicted sex offender. Documents released by the US Justice Department highlighted this link. These documents contained draft emails from Epstein. One email alleged Gates contracted an STD from Russian women. It claimed Gates sought antibiotics. He intended to give them to his wife secretly. Gates strongly denied these specific STD allegations. He called them “absurd and completely false.” However, he confirmed the extramarital relationships themselves. He acknowledged flying on Epstein’s private jet. He also spent time with Epstein in the US and abroad. Gates insisted he never witnessed or participated in illegal acts. He stated clearly, “I did nothing illicit. I saw nothing illicit.”
Previous Reports and Investigations
This news is not entirely new. Reports have surfaced previously about Gates’ conduct. In 2021, an investigation into an affair with a Microsoft employee occurred. This led to his resignation from the Microsoft board. An engineer alleged a sexual relationship over several years. A spokesperson confirmed the affair. They stated it ended “amicably.” The spokesperson claimed his board departure was unrelated. However, The New York Times reported Gates had a reputation for “questionable conduct.” The reports suggested he made overtures to women at work. These past happenings add context to current disclosures.
Reactions and Implications
Melinda French Gates has commented on the situation. She expressed sadness over the Epstein files. She noted these details brought back painful memories. However, she stated she has moved on. She believes Bill Gates must answer remaining questions. She indicated these questions are for him and others involved. The Gates Foundation has also responded. They have decried some allegations as false. The foundation values and mission are being considered. This developing story is creating significant public interest. It’s a trending topic across news outlets. The fallout from these admissions is still unfolding. Many are waiting to see further happenings.
A Public Apology
During the town hall, Gates apologized to foundation staff. He expressed regret for his association with Epstein. He called it a mistake. He felt it was contrary to the foundation’s values. He acknowledged people were hurt by his mistakes. He made it clear he never spent time with Epstein’s victims. This apology aims to address concerns raised. The exclusive nature of the admission highlights ongoing transparency efforts. The situation remains a focal point of public discussion. Bill Gates faces continued scrutiny. His personal and professional reputation is under review. This is a significant moment for the tech mogul.
