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‘Is he in the Epstein files?’: Michael Jordan under fire over gesture towards child at NASCAR event

Michael Jordan is mentioned 9 times in Epstein files: only in conversations. No evidence of contact between them. But NASCAR controversy sparked curiosity.

Updated on: Feb 17, 2026 2:10 AM IST
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NBA legend Michael Jordan sparked a row over an allegedly obscene gesture towards a child at the trophy presentation of the NASCAR Cup's Daytona 500 event on Sunday. Jordan, who was celebrating with Tyler Reddick, the driver for his racing franchise 23XI, after the former won the Daytona 500, touched a child on stage in a way that many thought inappropriate.

Michael Jordan, NBA Hall of Famer and co-owner of 23XI Racing reacts in victory lane after Tyler Reddick at Daytona 500. (Getty Images via AFP)
Michael Jordan, NBA Hall of Famer and co-owner of 23XI Racing reacts in victory lane after Tyler Reddick at Daytona 500. (Getty Images via AFP)

Bizarrely, however, it sparked interest in whether Michael Jordan has been mentioned in the Jeffrey Epstein files released by the Department of Justice and whether he knew Jeffrey Epstein.

Before taking a look at whether Michael Jordan had any links to Epstein or whether he is mentioned in the Epstein files, let's look at the controversial video.

Here it is:

Is Michael Jordan Mentioned In The Epstein Files?

On searching the nearly 3 million pages of Epstein probe released by the DOJ, the search for Michael Jordan's name yielded nine results. However, they occur in conversation between Epstein and his associate, and there is no direct contact between Jordan and the late convicted sex-trafficker.

Also read: Who is Michael Baden? Doctor makes big claim on Jeffrey Epstein's autopsy; ‘he was strangled’

Notably, Jordan was, perhaps, the most popular sportsperson during Epstein's heydays, and it is quite natural that he occurs as references. There are no reports of Michael Jordan and Epstein knowing each other.

Video Sparks Epstein Buzz

Nonetheless, the video sparked buzz as to whether Michael Jordan is in the Epstein files.

“A SUSPICIOUS video of Michael Jordan engaging with a fan is circulating social media🤨 Is MJ a name we need to look out for on the Epstein Files?” one user wrote.

“Not Michael Jordan doing this LIVE. Looks like they missed one in the Epstein Files,” wrote another.

“Michael Jeffrey Epstein Jordan is disgusting,” said another.

“KDF files dropped & now Michael Jeffrey Epstein Jordan is shown being a pdf man it’s a great day to be a LeBron fan,” added another.

While Reddick won the race for 23XI Racing, with Ricky Stenhouse Jr. second and Joey Logano third after a chaotic final lap at Daytona International Speedway.

  • Shamik Banerjee
    ABOUT THE AUTHOR
    Shamik Banerjee

    Shamik is a journalist covering the United States for Hindustan Times. He has more than four years of experience reporting on US politics, sports, and major breaking stories across fast-moving cycles. He previously worked at Times Now and Sportskeeda, building strong newsroom instincts and digital storytelling skills. At HT.com, he focuses on day-to-day coverage of US political developments while also handling high-impact stories that demand speed, accuracy, clarity, and context under pressure. Shamik has extensive experience covering NFL game days over the past two years, coordinating live updates, analysis, and explainers. He is particularly drawn to large news moments such as US elections and the Super Bowl, where he thrives at the news desk working alongside the team. He holds degrees in Media Studies from Jamia Millia Islamia and English Literature from Jadavpur University. Before entering journalism, he briefly worked in digital marketing and political consultancy roles. Currently a Senior Content Producer at HT Digital, he is driven by curiosity, discipline, and a constant desire to explore new and obscure topics. Outside work, he enjoys reading, films, sports, and learning continuously.Read More

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