Sarah Ferguson could receive a significant inheritance from late Formula One tycoon Paddy McNally, according to recent reports from the Daily Mail and The Sun. McNally, who passed away at age 88, amassed a $1.1 billion fortune and maintained a decades-long relationship with the former royal after they met in the 1980s in Verbier, Switzerland.
The Decades-Long Bond Between McNally and Ferguson
Long before her marriage to Prince Andrew in 1986, a 23-year-old Ferguson worked as a nanny for McNally’s two young sons at his Swiss chalet, “The Castle,” according to royal biographer Andrew Lownie’s book Entitled. The relationship was notably volatile, with Lownie reporting that McNally openly dated other women while Ferguson remained deeply enamored with him.
Despite Ferguson ultimately marrying Prince Andrew after an introduction by Diana, Princess of Wales, McNally remained a fixture in her life. Following her divorce, Ferguson and her daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, frequently utilized McNally’s Verbier compounds for luxury ski holidays, where he lavished the girls with designer skiwear and expensive handbags, a source told the Daily Mail.
Financial Rescue Following Royal Eviction
McNally stepped in to provide shelter after Ferguson and Prince Andrew were evicted from Royal Lodge in February, according to widely circulated reports in British media. Biographer Andrew Lownie told the Telegraph he “would not be surprised” if the late tycoon had provided for Ferguson in his will, noting that McNally was “very, very good to her.”
Did you know? Paddy McNally’s extensive asset portfolio included Sevenhampton Place, the $76 million former Wiltshire home of James Bond author Ian Fleming, as well as a Scottish grouse moor and a villa in the South of France.
An associate told the Daily Mail that insiders immediately wondered if McNally would bail Ferguson out for good following her recent public scandals and housing troubles. However, an anonymous source familiar with McNally’s business acumen suggested any inheritance is likely structured in a private trust rather than a lump sum, noting that McNally “always looked after Sarah.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Paddy McNally?
Paddy McNally was a former journalist who built a $1.1 billion fortune by recognizing the commercial potential of Formula One racing.
Did Paddy McNally marry Sarah Ferguson?
No, they never married. They were in a relationship during the 1980s before Ferguson married Prince Andrew, and McNally remained a close lifelong friend and benefactor.
What assets did McNally leave behind?
His estate includes multiple properties such as Sevenhampton Place in Wiltshire, three ski chalets in Verbier, a villa in the South of France, and a Scottish grouse moor.
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