Microsoft May Have Just Leaked Forza Horizon 6's Release Date & Key Details

Xbox’s upcoming Developer Direct on January 22 is set to be a big moment for all racing fans. Microsoft has already confirmed a deep dive into Forza Horizon 6, Playground Games’ next open-world racer, and expectations are high. The showcase might finally reveal when the game will be released. Guess what? A fresh leak may have already spilled the release date of Forza Horizon 6.

Forza Horizon 6 release date may have just leaked

According to a post shared on X, a player reportedly encountered an in-game promotional pop-up inside Forza Horizon 5 that appeared to advertise its sequel (via Windows Central). The message specifically referenced a Forza Horizon 6 Premium Edition, stating that players who preorder it will gain early access starting May 15. That detail strongly points to a May 19, 2026, release date for the standard edition.

The pop-up also sort of confirmed what the Premium Edition includes. Besides early access, it mentioned a VIP Membership, a Welcome Pack, a Car Pass, a Time Attack Car Pack, and an Italian Passion Car Pack scheduled for post-launch. Two future expansions were also listed in the in-game promotional pop-up. In addition, all preorders were said to include an exclusive, pre-tuned Ferrari J50 at launch.

Uncertainty of the leak

But the biggest of all, the leaked text claims Forza Horizon 6 will feature more than 550 cars and take players across the “breathtaking landscapes of Japan,” described as the series’ largest open world yet. The pop-up reportedly appeared only once and could not be reproduced, even by other players, which raises a few questions. As with every other leak, we recommend you take it with a grain of salt. Speaking of Developer Direct, let’s not forget that the latest rumors point to a fourth game, which could be a “first party.”