Earl Spencer claims Diana was abused by Mohamed Al Fayed

Earl Spencer has released shocking claims in his memoir that Princess Diana was physically abused by Mohamed Al Fayed during the early stages of her relationship with Dodi Fayed. The allegations, which include a hand squeeze on Diana’s buttocks, have reignited scrutiny of Al Fayed’s conduct and pro…

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 20 Sep 2026 16:08:22 GMT

The Earl of Pembroke, Earl Spencer, has taken to the page to reveal a new, unsettling chapter in the life of Princess Diana. In his forthcoming memoir, Spencer claims that early in Diana’s romance with Dodi Fayed, Mohamed Al Fayed – the Egyptian billionaire and father of Dodi – “dropped a hand onto her buttocks and squeezed them.” The allegation, if true, would add a new dimension to the long‑standing scrutiny of Al Fayed’s behaviour and the broader narrative surrounding Diana’s tragic death.

Background on the Key Figures

Princess Diana, the former wife of Prince Charles, was a global icon whose life and untimely death in 1997 continue to captivate the public. Dodi Fayed, an Egyptian heir, was her companion in the months leading up to the fatal car crash in Paris. Mohamed Al Fayed, Dodi’s father, has been a controversial figure, facing numerous accusations of sexual misconduct over decades. Earl Spencer, Diana’s younger brother, has long been a vocal defender of his sister’s legacy, often publishing memoirs and statements that challenge official narratives.

Details of the New Allegations

According to the Mail Online, Spencer recounts a conversation where Diana expressed revulsion at Al Fayed’s conduct. He writes that Diana told him, “with revulsion, how early in her romance with Dodi, Mohamed had come up to her, dropped a hand onto her buttocks and squeezed them while saying in a leery, suggestive tone, ‘And in Egypt, father‑in‑law gets first go…’” The phrase suggests a predatory tone and a direct link to Al Fayed’s family influence. Spencer’s memoir, titled Swan Song: Diana, My Sister, has already sparked controversy for its candid portrayal of the royal family and its critique of King Charles’ actions before and after Diana’s death.

Context of Al Fayed’s Legal Troubles

Al Fayed’s reputation has been marred by a wave of allegations that surfaced in the early 2020s. A BBC documentary in 2022 exposed claims of rape and sexual abuse against the billionaire, leading to a surge in public scrutiny. Since then, more than 400 allegations of sexual misconduct have been filed, covering incidents from 1977 to 2014. The Metropolitan Police have investigated at least 159 victims, 21 of whom reported abuse before Al Fayed’s death in 2023 at the age of 94. These allegations encompass a range of offenses, including sexual assault, exploitation, and human trafficking.

Royal Family’s Response

Buckingham Palace has issued statements in response to Spencer’s claims, emphasizing that grief can cloud judgment. The palace’s spokesperson highlighted that the King was “mindful that the pain of fraternal grief can cloud reason.” This response underscores the sensitivity of the subject matter and the potential impact on the royal family’s public image.

Implications for Diana’s Legacy

Spencer’s allegations add a new layer to the narrative of Diana’s life, suggesting that her relationship with Dodi may have involved more complex dynamics than previously understood. If corroborated, these claims could influence how historians and the public view Diana’s personal choices and the pressures she faced. Moreover, the allegations may prompt a re‑examination of Al Fayed’s legacy, potentially affecting his estate and the public’s perception of his character.

What Happens Next?

Spencer’s memoir is set to be serialized by the Daily Mail before its full publication next Tuesday. The book’s release will likely trigger further debate and possibly legal scrutiny. Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Police continue to investigate the broader network of alleged misconduct surrounding Al Fayed. As the story unfolds, observers will watch for any official responses from the royal family or new evidence that could either substantiate or refute Spencer’s claims.

In the meantime, the public remains divided. Some view Spencer’s revelations as a courageous act of truth‑telling, while others question the timing and potential motives behind the disclosures. Regardless, the narrative surrounding Princess Diana’s life and death continues to evolve, with each new claim adding complexity to an already intricate story.

As the memoir’s release approaches, the world watches closely, aware that the revelations could reshape the legacy of one of the 20th century’s most iconic figures.

Key facts

Earl Spencer claims Diana was physically abused by Mohamed Al Fayed early in her romance with Dodi
Al Fayed faces over 400 sexual misconduct allegations, investigated by Metropolitan Police
Buckingham Palace responds, citing grief can cloud judgment
Spencer’s memoir adds new complexity to Diana’s legacy
Al Fayed died in 2023, heightening scrutiny of his legacy

Why it matters

The allegations bring fresh scrutiny to Mohamed Al Fayed’s conduct and potentially reshape the narrative around Princess Diana’s personal life, influencing public perception of her legacy and the broader conversation about abuse and accountability.