In a move that has stunned both the tech and sports world, Elon Musk has ignited a firestorm by issuing a bold, bizarre ultimatum to the Baltimore Ravens — partner with Tesla, or face total exclusion from the brand.
“If the Ravens don’t want to work with Tesla,” Musk said during an impromptu Q&A on X Spaces, “then I’ll make sure no Ravens player can ever own or drive a Tesla again. That’s just how it’s going to be.”
Yes, you read that right.
The world’s richest man, who has increasingly inserted himself into sports conversations lately, has now threatened to blacklist an entire NFL team’s roster from accessing one of the most elite electric vehicles on the market — simply because they haven’t agreed to a business partnership.
“No Deal, No Drive”
The feud allegedly began after the Ravens’ front office reportedly declined a Tesla sponsorship pitch earlier this month. Sources say the team was exploring other automotive partners and felt Tesla’s pitch was “too controlling” and “lacking mutual benefit.”
Musk, known for his unpredictable and confrontational behavior, didn’t take the rejection lightly.
“It’s not just business — it’s about respect,” Musk added. “If you don’t see the value of partnering with the future of transportation, then don’t expect to enjoy it either.”
NFL Players React — “Is This Even Legal?”
Players across the league were left speechless — and some furious.
Ravens linebacker Patrick Queen tweeted:
“So let me get this straight. We can’t buy a Tesla now because we didn’t slap a logo on our helmets? LOL.”
Another anonymous Ravens player said,
“Is he gonna check VIN numbers and scan our garages next? This is just insane.”
Legal experts quickly weighed in, saying while Musk cannot legally ban individual citizens from purchasing Teslas, the company could refuse sponsorships, dealer discounts, or corporate benefits to Ravens players — potentially cutting off perks offered to athletes in other franchises.
Social Media Explodes
As expected, Musk’s comments triggered an online war.
Hashtags like #TeslaBan, #MuskVsRavens, and #PettyElon began trending within hours, with users mocking the billionaire’s “NFL power play.”