Telegram CEO to leave his fortune to his over 106 children

Pavel Durov will leave his $17 billion fortune to his 106+ children, ensuring equality among them.

: Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, has declared his intention to leave his substantial fortune, rumored to be around $17 billion, to over 106 of his biological children. He became a father to this extensive group through his relationships with three women and numerous sperm donations to a Russian IVF clinic. Durov has stated that his children, conceived naturally and via donations, are equal in his eyes and will have access to their inheritance in thirty years to foster independence. His decision follows recent legal issues, as he faces allegations related to criminal activities on Telegram, which he unequivocally denies.

Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder and CEO of Telegram, has announced that he plans to leave his entire fortune—estimated between $13.9 billion and $17 billion—to over 100 children he has fathered through both natural means and sperm donation. In an interview with French magazine Le Point, Durov confirmed that he has six children with three partners, and more than 100 others conceived anonymously across 12 countries. His unconventional decision has captured global attention, as it challenges norms around legacy and inheritance.

Durov emphasized that he considers all of the children equally, regardless of how they were conceived. He stated that there will be no distinction in inheritance rights between those born through relationships and those from anonymous donations. His goal is to ensure fairness, avoid legal disputes among heirs, and foster unity across a family that spans the globe.

However, none of his children will receive any inheritance until 30 years after the announcement, meaning the earliest access will be in 2055. Durov explained this delay is deliberate: he wants his children to grow up independently, develop their own identities, and not rely prematurely on inherited wealth. He believes that struggling to build a life is important to character and success.

Durov's announcement comes amid increasing legal scrutiny, particularly in France, where authorities have raised concerns about Telegram being used for illegal activities. Though Durov denies responsibility for users' actions on the platform, he cited these risks—as well as broader concerns about personal safety—as part of the motivation to plan his legacy early and thoroughly.

The decision has sparked widespread debate about wealth distribution, modern parenting, and the future of philanthropy. As a tech figure who has long positioned himself outside conventional systems—refusing advertising, corporate investors, or government influence—Durov’s plan reflects his belief in autonomy, privacy, and long-term vision for the next generation.

Sources: Business Insider, Le Point, People

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