OpenAI IPO Will Not Happen in 2026, Sam Altman Says

OpenAI IPO 2026 will not happen. The company’s CEO, Sam Altman, said this in an interview with Fortune. He cited the need to work on the safety and alignment of artificial intelligence systems, as well as cooperation between the technology industry and governments.

Altman described the current moment as unsuitable for going public and added that OpenAI does not feel pressure to become a publicly traded company. His statement was also independently reported by Reuters and the Associated Press.

Why OpenAI Is Delaying Its 2026 IPO

According to Altman, the company has time before a potential entry into public markets to address the safe development of AI and its alignment with human intentions. He also spoke about the need for coordination between the industry and governments.

This is not an announcement of a specific new timetable. Fortune mentions 2027 in its headline, but according to available information, Altman did not commit to a firm date. The only confirmed point is that OpenAI’s IPO will not take place in 2026.

One Anticipated IPO Remains Off the Market

The delay means that one of the most anticipated technology public offerings of 2026 will not take place. OpenAI will therefore remain a private company outside public stock markets for longer.

Altman’s remarks also do not indicate that safety issues are the only or decisive business reason for the delay. No additional conditions the company would want to meet before an IPO have been publicly confirmed either.

What to Watch Next

• whether OpenAI issues its own official statement on the IPO timeline,
• whether Altman or the company confirms a year after 2026,
• new steps by OpenAI, U.S. authorities and lawmakers concerning AI safety rules.

Verified and updated: 09/13/2026 06:19