Mustang GT500 Will Return In 2026 Alleged UAW Document Suggests
Ford's Mustang Shelby GT500 has always been the top shelf of performance within the Mustang lineup—well, until Ford went and developed the Mustang GTD—but it disappeared after the 2022 model year, just before the S550-generation Mustang made way for the current S650 model.
Key Points
- An allegedly leaked UAW document suggests the 2026 Shelby GT500 is in development, with V8 production ramping up at Ford’s Dearborn Engine Plant.
- The letter mentions a new “Legend” engine, likely referring to an updated version of the supercharged 5.2L V8 found in the F-150 Raptor R and upcoming Mustang GTD.
- Ford has yet to confirm the return of the GT500 nameplate
Ever since the generational turnover speculation has swirled about the GT500’s return, now, a newly surfaced UAW document suggests that a 2026 Shelby GT500 may be in the works.
The letter—allegedly from UAW Local 600, the union body representing workers at Ford's Dearborn Engine Plant (DEP)— showed up on Reddit and has been widely circulated on enthusiast forums. The document discusses production changes at DEP, which currently builds the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 found in the F-150 Raptor R and upcoming Mustang GTD.
Allegedly, an afternoon shift will be added at the end of 2025 to support increased volume for the 2026 Shelby GT500, adding that the engine will carry the name “Legend.” The current supercharged 5.2L engines are built on a separate niche assembly line alongside Ford's Duratec engines used in the Bronco Sport and Maverick.
Ford has yet to confirm the return of the GT500 nameplate, but the 2023 UAW contract agreement ensures that the supercharged 5.2-liter V8 will remain in production until at least 2028. However, there’s also been speculation that Ford might rebrand its next flagship Mustang with a different name rather than resurrecting the GT500 badge.
With the Corvette ZR1 reaching into four-figure horsepower territory, it's possible we see Ford stretch for similar vanity numbers from a future GT500. It's unclear how a high-horsepower GT500 would integrate into the existing Mustang hierarchy, especially with the $325,000 Mustang GTD only making 815 horsepower.
We've reached out to both the UAW and Ford for comment and will update the story if either responds.
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An experienced automotive storyteller and accomplished photographer known for engaging and insightful content. Michael also brings a wealth of technical knowledge—he was part of the Ford GT program at Multimatic, oversaw a fleet of Audi TCR race cars, ziptied Lamborghini Super Trofeo cars back together, been over the wall during the Rolex 24, and worked in the intense world of IndyCar.
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I just spent 6 weeks in Florida and saw lots of mustangs. Is sounded like every other one had a blown gasket. I know the sound well since the same thing happened to my mustang 30 years ago.
There is a reason the Ford Mustang GT's are floundering in sales. The prices have continually skyrocketed of recent. I was interested in a Mustang until I was priced out. Get a grip Ford, it's basically a two-seater.