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Sam Altman says Elon Musk sought 90% of OpenAI during trial
Sam Altman testified that Elon Musk proposed a controlling stake of OpenAI, including an early idea of 90% equity, and described Musk’s efforts to dominate the company. The trial centers on OpenAI's 2019 pivot to a for-profit model and Musk's lawsuit seeking a return to non-profit status, with witnesses including Microsoft’s Nadella and prosecutors pressing for conflicts-of-interest disclosures ahead of a potential public offering. A forthcoming advisory jury verdict was anticipated by mid-May as the case unfolds in Oakland, California.
Why It Matters
The testimony highlights governance and funding tensions at OpenAI and underscored how control issues could influence the AI industry’s competitive landscape and regulatory considerations.
Timeline
10 Events
Advisory jury verdict expected by week of May 18
May 13, 2026
An advisory jury is expected to reach a verdict on any actual wrongdoing by the week of May 18; the judge indicated she will likely follow the jury’s advice.
Prosecutors demand conflicts-of-interest disclosures
May 13, 2026
Prosecutors from 10 U.S. states demanded Altman be compelled to reveal potential conflicts of interest ahead of a mooted public offering for OpenAI.
Nadella testifies on Microsoft investment
May 12, 2026
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella testified that he was very proud of Microsoft’s investment in OpenAI’s commercial venture.
Altman testifies in trial on Musk OpenAI dispute
May 12, 2026
Sam Altman testified in Oakland, California, recounting Musk’s demand for a near-total stake and other attempts to gain control of OpenAI.
Altman reinstated as CEO after revolt
November 2023
Altman was reinstated five days later after a company revolt.
Altman ousted as OpenAI CEO
November 2023
Sam Altman was abruptly ousted as head of OpenAI in November 2023, amid accusations of opacity by the board.
OpenAI creates a for-profit subsidiary
2019
OpenAI established a for-profit subsidiary in 2019 as the AI race intensified.
Musk proposes 90% equity; later walks away
2017
Musk proposed a majority stake, with an early figure of 90%, and, after being thwarted from dominating OpenAI, walked away, saying the venture would fail without him.
2017 discussions with Musk about for-profit subsidiary
2017
In 2017, OpenAI co-founders discussed creating the subsidiary with Elon Musk, who proposed he should have a controlling stake.
OpenAI founded as a non-profit
2015
OpenAI was founded as a non-profit organization in 2015.