Source: NPR

Elon Musk testified in U.S. District Court in Oakland, Calif., saying he regretted funding OpenAI and alleging the organization abandoned its nonprofit mission by effectively becoming a for‑profit enterprise. He is suing OpenAI, CEO Sam Altman and others, claiming they "stole a charity," and is seeking the removal of Altman and OpenAI president Greg Brockman as well as reversal of the for‑profit structure. Musk described three phases of his relationship with OpenAI—enthusiastic support, growing uncertainty, and the conclusion that "they were looting the nonprofit"—and criticized a 2020 agreement and a later $10 billion Microsoft investment as inconsistent with the charity's original openness.

OpenAI's lead lawyer, William Savitt, countered during cross‑examination that Musk's claims reflect sour grapes and questioned Musk's credibility, noting Musk had opportunities to object earlier and did not sue until 2024. Savitt highlighted that Musk pledged $1 billion but contributed about $38 million, while Musk insisted his monetary and intangible contributions exceeded $100 million. Musk testified he would have accepted a for‑profit arm only if it served the nonprofit and capped investor profits, and said he rejected equity because he believed nonprofits should not have valuations or equity holders. The article reports testimony continued into Thursday and was updated to include coverage of the cross‑examination.