Motorsport magnate Paddy McNally, a former partner of Sarah Ferguson, has passed away shortly after his son’s death. McNally, a renowned racing driver turned successful corporate hospitality entrepreneur in Formula One, died at the age of 88 earlier this week.
Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York, dated McNally in the early 1980s before marrying Prince Andrew. Despite their breakup, they remained close, with Ferguson referring to McNally as a significant influence in her life. McNally’s passing follows the sudden death of his son Sean in April.
During his final days, McNally provided refuge to Ferguson in his Swiss ski chalet as she sought solace after the release of sensitive documents related to her acquaintance with Jeffrey Epstein. Known for his involvement in Formula One and corporate hospitality, McNally founded the prosperous Allsport company, amassing substantial wealth and a global property portfolio. He married Ann in 1967, but she passed away in 1980, after which he began a relationship with Ferguson.
McNally’s business acumen led him to sell Allsport in 2006 for $350 million, earning him a spot on the Sunday Times Rich List. The FIA expressed deep sorrow over McNally’s death and acknowledged his significant contributions to Formula One’s commercial growth alongside Bernie Ecclestone.
Meanwhile, Ferguson has maintained a low profile since the Epstein scandal, retreating to a chalet in the Alps. Her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, faced repercussions due to his association with Epstein, resulting in the loss of titles and honors. Ferguson also faced consequences, losing her royal title and the freedom of the city of York.
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