# WordPress coup: 33 hours that shook Automattic

> Matt Mullenweg was ousted by his board on September 9, then regained control within 33 hours. Three directors and two executives departed.
- Title: WordPress coup: 33 hours that shook Automattic · Fortune
- Summary: Matt Mullenweg was ousted by his board on September 9, then regained control within 33 hours. Three directors and two executives departed. Automattic's board…
- Keywords: matt mullenweg, automattic, wordpress, board coup, corporate governance, coup, hours, shook, Fortune
- Source: Fortune — https://fortune.com/2026/10/19/riots-france-blow-up-bond-market
- Author: Jim Edwards
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: matt mullenweg, automattic, wordpress, board coup, corporate governance
## Board votes to remove Mullenweg
On September 9, Automattic's six-member board voted to put CEO Matt Mullenweg on leave. The move surprised observers, as Mullenweg had just returned from his annual Burning Man trip.
## Mullenweg regains control in 33 hours
Within 33 hours, Mullenweg was back in control of the company. Three board directors who tried to sideline him departed, along with the CFO and chief legal officer.
## Secrecy shrouds the boardroom drama
No board members have publicly explained why they wanted Mullenweg out. Mullenweg has declined to describe his removal or how he regained control. Fortune investigated and obtained the full story.
## Key takeaway

Automattic's board voted to remove CEO Matt Mullenweg on September 9, but he regained control within 33 hours and forced out three directors, the CFO and chief legal officer.