OpenAI CEO Sam Altman testifies in high-stakes Musk trial

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman took the stand on May 12, 2026, in the landmark Musk v. Altman trial, facing off against Elon Musk, who co-founded OpenAI and invested $38 million in its early days. Altman is a primary defendant alongside OpenAI president Greg Brockman. Musk's legal action seeks to strip both Altman and Brockman of their leadership roles and to undo OpenAI's transition from a nonprofit to a for-profit structure. The trial has already featured testimony from key figures including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, former OpenAI board member Shivon Zilis (also mother of Musk's children), and former OpenAI CTO Mira Murati. The relationship between Musk and Altman soured after Musk left the company and later founded xAI, a direct competitor. This trial represents the culmination of years of legal battles and public sparring between the two tech titans, with Musk alleging that OpenAI abandoned its original nonprofit mission.

The courtroom drama underscores the high stakes for the AI industry. Musk is asking the court to remove Altman and Brockman from their positions, which could reshape OpenAI's leadership and governance. The trial has drawn intense scrutiny as it pits two of AI's most influential figures against each other, with implications for the future of AGI development. Altman's testimony is expected to be pivotal in defending OpenAI's actions and his own role. The case highlights fundamental questions about the mission of AI companies and the balance between profit and open research. A verdict could set a precedent for how AI startups are structured and governed, especially those that begin as nonprofits.