OpenAI Elon Musk Lawsuit 2026: Bracing for a $500 Billion Legal Hurricane

OpenAI just fired a preemptive strike in what's shaping up to be the tech trial of the decade. In a letter sent to investors and banking partners, the AI powerhouse warned that Elon Musk will likely make "deliberately outlandish" and "attention-grabbing" claims as their legal battle heads to trial in April 2026. It's a high-stakes move to steady nerves as the company's $500 billion valuation hangs in the balance.

OpenAI Elon Musk Lawsuit 2026: Strategic Defense

According to the letter viewed by CNBC, OpenAI describes Musk's tactics as "harassment" rather than reality-based legal arguments. The feud, which has simmered since Musk left the board in 2018, centers on accusations that CEO Sam Altman manipulated Musk into co-founding the firm under the guise of a non-profit, only to pivot toward a lucrative partnership with Microsoft.

The financial gap between the two parties is staggering. While Musk claims he is owed billions for the intellectual property developed during his tenure, OpenAI maintains the case is worth no more than the $38 million he originally donated. "We have strong defenses and feel confident," the company stated, emphasizing that their user metrics continue to hit "all-time highs" despite the legal noise.