WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum to sue the designer of his yachts

The yachting world is embroiled in yet another scandal: Boat International has uncovered a conflict between WhatsApp co-founder Jan Koum and designer Rémi Tessier.

According to court documents obtained by the publication, Koum is accusing Tessier of fraudulent behavior during the renovation of his properties and yachts. The allegations could involve several million dollars.


Rémi Tessier

In short, Koum claims that Tessier entered into agreements with suppliers at one price but sent inflated invoices to the client. Additionally, the filing states that the designer purchased cheaper alternatives to the requested interior items—such as handmade rugs from lesser-known manufacturers—while passing them off as the premium products the client had specified, pocketing the price difference.


Yachting has reached out to Rémi Tessier's office for comment on the matter.

Join us in social media