Pavel Durov, the multi-billionaire founder of the popular instant messaging app Telegram, has made a surprising revelation that he has fathered over 100 children through sperm donations. In an exclusive interview with the French political magazine Le Point, Durov disclosed that his journey into fatherhood began 15 years ago at a clinic where he donated sperm to assist a friend. According to him, this altruistic gesture has led to the conception of more than 100 babies across 12 different countries.

In addition to these offspring, Durov claims to be the official father of six other children, whom he shares with three different partners. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that all of his children will have equal rights to his substantial wealth, which is estimated at around $13.9 billion (£10.3 billion). “They are all my children and will all have the same rights! I don't want them to tear each other apart after my death,” he stated, reflecting his desire to maintain a sense of unity among his children regarding their inheritance.

However, Durov has set a peculiar stipulation regarding when his children will gain access to their inheritance; he stated that they will not be able to touch their fortunes for 30 years. “I want them to live like normal people, to build themselves up alone, to learn to trust themselves, to be able to create, not to be dependent on a bank account,” he explained, indicating his belief in the value of self-reliance and personal growth.

At 40 years old, Durov also mentioned that he has taken the precaution of writing a will. He cited the risks associated with his career, particularly in defending freedoms and privacy rights, which have made him a target for powerful adversaries, including governments. This concern is particularly relevant given that Telegram, his flagship app known for its privacy and encryption features, boasts over a billion monthly active users.

In the same interview, Durov addressed serious criminal charges he currently faces in France, labeling them as “totally absurd.” This assertion highlights the contentious environment he operates within, both in terms of his business and personal life. As such, his statements about fatherhood, wealth, and responsibility take on an added layer of complexity, reflecting not only his entrepreneurial spirit but also his commitment to his children.