The relationship between WordPress.org and WP Engine has devolved into one of the most contentious sagas in the world of open-source software. What started as subtle disagreements has escalated into a full-blown public feud. This article provides a timeline of the major events that have unfolded, showcasing the turmoil that has rattled the WordPress community.
Timeline of Events
July 2024: The Spark at WordCamp
During a keynote at WordCamp, Matt Mullenweg, co-founder of WordPress, publicly referred to WP Engine as a "cancer" to the WordPress ecosystem. This incendiary comment shocked the community, setting the stage for a heated conflict.
August 2024: WP Authentication Checkbox Controversy
Shortly after the WordCamp remarks, users noticed a new checkbox on WordPress authentication screens that flagged websites hosted on WP Engine. The label read, "Host with WP Engine? Please consider alternatives for optimal WordPress performance." This move was seen as a direct attack on WP Engine, raising concerns about impartiality.
September 2024: The Pizza Checkbox Mockery
In a bizarre turn, WordPress added another checkbox labeled "Do you want toppings on your pizza?" in subsequent updates, seemingly mocking WP Engine’s earlier rebuttals about being a vital "topping" to WordPress sites. This stunt drew criticism for unprofessionalism.
October 2024: WP Engine Files Lawsuit
In response to escalating tensions, WP Engine filed a lawsuit against Automattic, the company behind WordPress.org, alleging defamation and anti-competitive behavior. Legal documents revealed details about Automattic’s internal strategy to undermine WP Engine.
November 2024: The "Hosting Tracker" Website
Matt Mullenweg launched a dedicated website that tracked hosting changes for WP Engine users. The website, which displayed real-time data about websites moving away from WP Engine, was criticized as invasive and unethical.
December 2024: Plugin Takeovers Begin
Automattic began acquiring and repurposing popular plugins created by WP Engine contributors. This led to widespread concern about the monopolization of community-created tools.
December 2024: Court Orders Automattic to Restore WP Engine Access
A California District Court ordered Automattic to cease blocking WP Engine's access to WordPress.org resources and interfering with its plugins. The court found that Automattic's actions were causing irreparable harm to WP Engine's business relationships.
January 2025: Automattic Reduces Contributions to WordPress.org
Automattic announced a significant reduction in its contributions to the WordPress open-source project, decreasing from 3,988 hours to approximately 45 hours per month. This decision was seen as a signal of the strained relationship between Automattic and the wider WordPress community.
January 2025: Closure of WP Community Projects
WordPress.org announced the abrupt closure of several community projects that were spearheaded by contributors associated with WP Engine. This move was viewed as retaliatory and stifling to the open-source ethos.
Why this matters?
What started as a philosophical difference about the direction of WordPress has spiraled into a divisive and public battle. For a platform built on the principles of collaboration and open-source development, this saga serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges in balancing business interests and community ideals.
This timeline will continue to evolve as new developments emerge. Stay tuned as The Scylla Group monitors this unfolding drama.
