The Pritzker Architecture Prize, often called architecture’s Nobel, has postponed its 2026 laureate announcement following revelations from Jeffrey Epstein’s documents linking foundation leader Tom Pritzker to the financier. Typically revealed in early March, the delay comes after U.S. Department of Justice files released on January 30 named Pritzker over a thousand times in Epstein’s emails.
Background on Revelations
Tom Pritzker, son of the prize’s founder Jay Pritzker and vice president of the Pritzker Foundation, maintained contact with Epstein post his 2008 plea deal on sex crime charges. Emails detail discussions on meals, meetings, and even Epstein’s interest in attending the 2012 Beijing ceremony for winner Wang Shu. Pritzker recently resigned as Hyatt Hotels executive chairman, admitting “terrible judgment” in sustaining ties with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.
Foundation’s Response
A Pritzker spokesperson confirmed the announcement will be “postponed slightly,” without a new date. The foundation emphasized its jury’s independence, comprising international experts who operate confidentially free from external influence. The prize, worth $100,000 and a bronze medallion, has honored figures like Frank Gehry, Francis Kéré, and Liu Jiakun.
Broader Context
The decision follows widespread media coverage and public discourse on platforms like Reddit, questioning architecture’s ties to Epstein’s network. Past controversies, such as the 1991 oversight of Denise Scott Brown, highlight ongoing scrutiny of the prize’s processes. No new recipient announcement timeline has been provided.
Athmaja Biju is the Editor at Abir Pothi. She is a Translator and Writer working on Visual Culture.
