OpenAI says Elon Musk is orchestrating a last-minute 'legal ambush' before trial

Source: Engadget

Background

The feud between Elon Musk and OpenAI is intensifying as both sides prepare for trial later this month. OpenAI has accused Musk of orchestrating a “legal ambush,” alleging that he is “sandbagging the defendants and injecting chaos into the proceedings while trying to recast his public narrative about his lawsuit,” according to Bloomberg.

Origin of the Lawsuit

• In 2024, Musk sued OpenAI and Microsoft, claiming the AI company abandoned its original non‑profit mission after receiving financial backing and forming a partnership with Microsoft.
• Earlier this month, Musk amended his complaint to:
  • Direct any awarded damages to OpenAI’s nonprofit arm.
  • Seek the removal of Sam Altman from his roles as CEO and board member.

OpenAI’s Friday filing described Musk’s last‑minute changes as “legally improper and factually unsupported.”

Damages Sought

Musk is reportedly seeking damages ranging from $79 billion to $134 billion in “wrongful gains.”

Trial Schedule

Both OpenAI and Microsoft deny any wrongdoing. The trial is scheduled to begin on April 27.