The rivalry between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg dates back to September 2016, following the explosion of a SpaceX rocket that resulted in the destruction of Facebook’s Amos 6 satellite. Musk expressed regret over the incident, acknowledging the loss of a satellite that was intended to provide internet connectivity to developing regions, which added a layer of complexity to their relationship.

Tensions escalated as Musk publicly criticized Facebook’s data-sharing practices, urging users to “delete Facebook” due to his concerns over privacy and the management of user data. In turn, Zuckerberg responded to Musk’s criticisms regarding artificial intelligence, dismissing Musk’s views as overly negative and irresponsible, which further fueled their ongoing feud.

Today, both tech leaders find themselves competing in the rapidly evolving fields of AI and satellite internet. Musk’s companies, including SpaceX and Tesla, are making significant advancements in these areas, while Zuckerberg’s platforms, notably Facebook (now Meta), face increasing scrutiny over issues related to content moderation and misinformation. This rivalry not only reflects personal animosities but also highlights broader tensions within the tech industry as these leaders navigate the challenges and opportunities presented by emerging technologies.