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Sarah Ferguson says 'I need money' as she seeks a fresh start in UAE amid Epstein fallout


Ferguson and Andrew have been affected by the new batch of Epstein files


Sarah Ferguson says 'I need money' as she seeks a fresh start in UAE amid Epstein fallout© Corbis via Getty Images
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
FEBRUARY 11, 2026 12:55 PM EST

The Duchess of York has been named directly in Jeffrey Epstein's recently declassified files. Newly surfaced emails reportedly show conversations that contradict the version of events she previously maintained, placing her under renewed public and media pressure. Sarah Ferguson, 66, is said to be prioritizing her financial stability. 

It had been known for days that Andrew was finally negotiating his departure from Royal Lodge. © Max Mumby/Indigo
Sarah Ferguson and Andrew have been affected by the Epstein files

According to the Daily Mail, she has outlined these priorities to her close friends. “I need to get back to work. I need money," she said. 

The outlet reports that Ferguson recently spent time in the French Alps before traveling to the United Arab Emirates, seeking privacy and space from the UK “while she puts her thoughts in order.”

The publication of her email exchanges with Epstein reportedly led to the loss of book deals, sponsorships, and charitable affiliations. The developments unfolded as King Charles III decided to evict Prince Andrew from the Royal Lodge, the Crown Estate property the former couple had shared for two decades despite their 1996 divorce.

The wedding of Prince Andrew, Duke of York, and Sarah Ferguson at Westminster Abbey, London, UK, 23rd July 1986. (Photo by John Shelley Collection/Avalon/Getty Images)© John Shelley Collection/Avalon/Getty Images
The couple married in 1986 and share two daughters

Financial difficulties have followed Ferguson for decades and have likely increased since leaving royal life. In 2010, she was caught in a sting operation, appearing to accept money in exchange for a job for Prince Andrew. At the time, he was serving as the UK’s trade envoy, a position that is now facing renewed examination following the release of the Epstein files.

According to reports, Ferguson has told friends that when she returns to the UK, she plans to put “some distance” between herself and Prince Andrew. That statement suggests she may not relocate with him to the Sandringham estate property King Charles has made available to his brother.

Once described by Ferguson as “the happiest divorced couple,” her post-marriage relationship with Andrew appears to be entering a new phase. 

A source close to the couple told the Daily Mail that "there is to be some sort of party for their last remaining friends over Christmas"© Dan Kitwood
Andrew moved out of his royal residency earlier this year

King Charles' response

Buckingham Palace released a statement on behalf of King Charles III expressing “deep concern regarding the allegations that continue to emerge concerning the conduct of Mr. Mountbatten-Windsor.”

While emphasizing that Prince Andrew must address the claims directly, the statement noted that if Thames Valley Police request assistance, the Palace is ready to cooperate. The King and Queen also reiterated that their “thoughts and condolences remain with victims of all forms of abuse.”

Recent reporting revealed that Prince Andrew allegedly shared confidential information from his role as UK trade envoy with Epstein, including details about official trips to Singapore, Vietnam, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, as well as reports prepared by aides. Another email allegedly referenced investment discussions related to Afghanistan that involved UK government oversight.

As scrutiny intensifies, Sarah Ferguson appears to be confronting a pivotal moment, one that could redefine her public image and her personal life.

King Charles removes Prince Andrew’s titles, announces his Royal Lodge exit: 'These censures are deemed necessary'© Max Mumby/Indigo
King Charles removes Prince Andrew’s titles, announces his Royal Lodge exit: 'These censures are deemed necessary'

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