The OpenAI vs Elon Musk legal battle has taken a dramatic turn. In new court filings, OpenAI’s lawyers are pushing to involve Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, asking a federal judge to subpoena him over Musk’s $97 billion takeover bid. This move signals how intense the rivalry has become in the race to control the future of artificial intelligence.
Why Zuckerberg Is Now Involved
At the center of the OpenAI vs Elon Musk lawsuit is Musk’s attempt to acquire OpenAI earlier in 2025. Court documents reveal that Musk reached out to Mark Zuckerberg for support or financing in the bid. Although Zuckerberg declined, OpenAI argues these communications could show Musk’s true intentions—whether the bid was genuine or a sham designed to destabilize the company.
What the Court Has Decided
Judge Yvonne Gonzalez Rogers ruled that the case will move forward, with a jury trial set for spring 2026. OpenAI’s legal team is demanding Meta hand over documents related to Musk’s approach. If the judge grants this request, Zuckerberg could be required to testify under oath, adding a new layer to the already high-profile OpenAI vs Elon Musk case.
The Stakes in OpenAI vs Elon Musk
This case highlights three key issues shaping the AI industry:
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Corporate Rivalry in AI – OpenAI, Musk’s xAI, and Meta are competing fiercely to lead in generative AI.
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Billions at Risk – Musk’s rejected $97B bid shows just how valuable OpenAI has become, thanks to ChatGPT.
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Legal Precedents – The outcome of OpenAI vs Elon Musk could shape how AI companies defend against hostile takeovers.
What Happens Next
For now, Meta is resisting the subpoena, arguing that OpenAI should seek documents directly from Musk or xAI. Still, if the judge sides with OpenAI, Mark Zuckerberg may be forced to testify in the coming months.
With the trial scheduled for 2026, the OpenAI vs Elon Musk case is set to remain a headline story, possibly changing the landscape of the global AI industry.
The OpenAI vs Elon Musk lawsuit has already reshaped the conversation around Big Tech and AI power struggles. By pulling Mark Zuckerberg and Meta into the courtroom, OpenAI is signaling its determination to expose the full extent of Musk’s $97B takeover attempt. The trial will not just decide who wins in court—it may also decide who leads in the next generation of artificial intelligence.
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