Elon Musk Sues OpenAI, Sam Altman and Top Deputy Over Alleged Breach of Nonprofit Founding Agreement

Elon Musk is suing OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and his top deputy, accusing them of betraying plans to keep the artificial intelligence company as a nonprofit. Musk was an early investor in OpenAI. The suit comes as a jury is set to deliberate in a landmark tech case on May 15, 2026.

ABC News reported the development Friday as part of broader coverage that included updates on artificial intelligence policy and market impacts. Musk's legal action targets both Altman and the executive identified as his top deputy. The accusations focus on decisions that allegedly moved OpenAI away from its founding commitment to operate as a nonprofit entity dedicated to broad benefit rather than commercial gain.

OpenAI began as a nonprofit organization with a mission to ensure artificial intelligence benefits humanity. Musk's lawsuit claims Altman and his deputy violated the original structure and intent established when the company was formed. The filing marks the latest chapter in long-running tensions between Musk and OpenAI.

Musk has previously expressed concerns about the direction of the company he helped seed in its early days.

The case arrives amid heightened public and regulatory scrutiny of artificial intelligence companies. U.S. economy and impact of AI.

Musk's complaint does not seek specific monetary damages in the details reported. Instead it focuses on the alleged breach of the nonprofit founding principles. The lawsuit names both Altman and his top deputy as defendants.

No further details on the identity of the deputy or specific allegations beyond the betrayal of nonprofit plans were included in initial reporting. OpenAI has not commented publicly on the suit in the facts reported Friday. The company transitioned years ago toward a for-profit model while maintaining a nonprofit parent, a shift that has drawn criticism from some early backers.