Judge Allows Elon Musk’s Lawsuit Against OpenAI Over For-Profit Shift to Go to Trial

A US federal judge has ruled that Elon Musk’s lawsuit against OpenAI over its shift from a nonprofit mission to a for-profit structure can proceed to a jury trial scheduled for March 2026. Musk, who co-founded OpenAI and later left, claims the company violated its original mission and seeks damages tied to his early contributions, arguing the transition enabled lucrative deals with partners like Microsoft. The judge found that there are factual disputes about assurances OpenAI’s leadership made about maintaining a nonprofit focus, which should be decided by a jury. OpenAI and its leaders deny the allegations, calling them unfounded and stemming from competitive tensions in the AI industry. The case highlights ongoing legal and ethical debates about how AI research organizations balance public benefit with commercial interests.

The Guardian, Staff – Musk lawsuit over OpenAI for-profit conversion can go to trial, US judge says – 8th January 2026