Elon Musk said Sam Altman “stole” a non-profit — but the trial showed he had similar aims
Elon vs. Sam: Trial testimony reveals both had the same vision for OpenAI's future—but only one controlled the narrative.

Why it matters
A high-stakes legal dispute between two of AI's most influential figures exposes fundamental disagreements about OpenAI's non-profit mission and governance. Court testimony suggests both founders shared similar long-term ambitions, reframing the 'theft' accusation as a governance clash with major implications for AI industry leadership and institutional control.
The key facts
5 to knowMusk accused Altman of 'stealing' OpenAI non-profit
Trial testimony revealed both had similar strategic aims
Dispute centers on non-profit governance and mission
Case involves two of AI industry's most prominent figures
Published May 19, 2026 — indicates recent trial proceedings
Go to the source
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Publisher excerpt: “By the end of this week, you and Sam will be the most hated men in America.”