Enthusiasts of American muscle cars, particularly the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, have reason to be excited. A leaked internal memo from the UAW Local 600 suggests that a new Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 is slated for production as a 2026 model. This news, while unconfirmed by Ford, is fueling anticipation for the return of this iconic high-performance vehicle.
Leaked Memo Hints at 2026 Ford Shelby GT500
The buzz started when a memo from the UAW Local 600 to its members surfaced on the Mustang7G forum. This document, reportedly originating from within Ford’s Dearborn Engine Plant, indicated preparations for a new engine program. According to the memo and a source familiar with Ford’s plans, the Dearborn Engine Plant has been increasing its workforce to support engine production for various models, including a new engine for the 2026 Mustang Shelby GT500.
This engine, intriguingly, is codenamed “Legend.” While specifics about the “Legend” engine remain shrouded in secrecy, its very name suggests Ford’s intention to create a powertrain that lives up to the GT500’s legendary status. The memo indicates that production for this engine and the new GT500 is expected to ramp up with an added shift on the Niche Assembly line by the end of the year.
The “Legend” Engine: Speculation and Potential
Ford has officially declined to comment on future product speculation. However, the leaked memo and insider confirmation lend credibility to the rumors of a 2026 Ford GT500. The “Legend” engine moniker naturally sparks speculation about what Ford has in store. Will it be a further evolution of the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 that powered the previous generation GT500, or something entirely new?
Given the performance benchmarks set by its predecessors, the “Legend” engine is expected to deliver impressive horsepower figures, potentially exceeding the 760 horsepower of the 2020-2022 GT500. Whether Ford will stick with supercharging or explore other forced induction methods, or even incorporate hybrid technology, remains to be seen. The name “Legend” implies a significant step forward in performance and technology for the GT500.
GT500 Legacy: A Performance Benchmark
The anticipation surrounding the 2026 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 is rooted in the model’s rich history and reputation for blistering performance. The previous generation, offered from 2020 to 2022, was a true powerhouse, equipped with a supercharged 5.2-liter V8 engine producing 760 horsepower. This made it one of the most powerful production Mustangs ever built, capable of incredible acceleration and track performance.
Ford engine plant workers assembling engines, representing the production of the new Ford GT500 Legend engine at Dearborn Engine Plant
The popularity and performance of the previous GT500 are reflected in the used car market. According to Edmunds.com, used 2020-2022 Ford Shelby GT500 models range from approximately $70,000 to $117,000, indicating strong demand and retained value for these high-performance machines.
Waiting for Official Confirmation
While the leaked memo and insider information strongly suggest the arrival of a 2026 Ford Shelby Mustang GT500 with a “Legend” engine, official confirmation from Ford is still pending. For now, Mustang enthusiasts will have to wait and see if these rumors materialize into reality. If the reports are accurate, the 2026 Ford GT500 promises to be a worthy successor to the Shelby performance legacy, offering a new chapter in the Mustang story.
