Elon Musk Threatens to Buy Baltimore Ravens, Fire John Harbaugh Over Tesla Ad Dispute
On May 28, 2025, at 9:15 AM, a fiery clash unfolded as Baltimore Ravens head coach John Harbaugh declared, “Drop Tesla, Baltimore Ravens will never advertise with Elon Musk,” rejecting a proposed Tesla sponsorship. In response, Musk angrily claimed he could buy the team and fire Harbaugh, escalating tensions and igniting a storm of reactions across the NFL and social media.
Harbaugh’s Defiant Stance
Harbaugh’s blunt refusal, made during a press conference reported by ESPN, stems from Musk’s controversial political ties and recent NFL ad rejections by teams like the Green Bay Packers. The Ravens, focused on their 2025 playoff push with a 10–7 record, prioritize brand alignment, with Harbaugh citing Tesla’s image as incompatible with the team’s values. Fans on X rallied behind him, trending #RavensNoTesla, with one posting, “Harbaugh’s standing tall! No Musk in Baltimore! #RavensFlock”
Musk’s Explosive Retort
Musk, the billionaire behind Tesla and X, fired back on his platform, stating, “I could buy the Ravens and fire Harbaugh tomorrow.” His outburst, reported by CBS News, reflects frustration amid vandalism targeting Tesla dealerships and a Baltimore contract pause. The Ravens, valued at $4.63 billion by Forbes, are owned by Steve Bisciotti, making a sale unlikely. Musk’s threat, however, underscores his influence, with 3.5 billion X users amplifying the feud.
NFL and Fan Reactions
The NFL, navigating jersey ad controversies, faces pressure as stars like Rashod Bateman also reject Tesla deals. Harbaugh’s job security, bolstered by a recent extension, remains solid, per YouTube’s Bowie TV. On X, opinions split, with some fans backing Musk’s bravado and others praising Harbaugh’s principles. One user wrote, “Musk’s ego can’t handle rejection. Ravens don’t need him!”
A Cultural Flashpoint
This clash highlights deeper tensions between sports, corporate power, and politics. Musk’s role in Trump’s administration fuels protests, like the 600-strong #TeslaTakedown in Owings Mills. As the Ravens chase a Super Bowl, Harbaugh’s stand and Musk’s threat signal a battle beyond football, with Baltimore’s loyalty firmly behind its coach.
