The hype train for Forza Horizon 6 just shifted into high gear. Reliable leaker billbil-kun dropped the game’s official cover art on social media today, giving fans their first proper look at what will grace the box when the game launches this May. The star of the show? A sleek Toyota GR GT, positioned front and center against what appears to be a Japanese backdrop.
This leak comes just hours before Microsoft’s Xbox Developer Direct event scheduled for January 22, 2026, where Playground Games was already set to showcase gameplay and dive deep into how Japan comes to life in this latest entry. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for building anticipation.
Toyota GR GT Takes Center Stage
The choice of the Toyota GR GT as the cover car makes absolute sense for a game set in Japan. This concept-turned-reality vehicle represents Toyota’s vision for high-performance gran turismo racing, and it’s been highly anticipated by car enthusiasts since its debut. Previous Forza Horizon titles have featured iconic vehicles on their covers, from the Mercedes-AMG One in Forza Horizon 5 to the McLaren Senna in Forza Horizon 4.
The leaked image, though intentionally blurred by billbil-kun (as is his signature style), shows the GR GT in what appears to be a vibrant red finish. Reddit users on r/GamingLeaksAndRumours were quick to analyze every pixel, with many confirming the vehicle’s distinctive silhouette matches the Toyota GR GT perfectly.
Release Date Already Spoiled
If you’ve been following the Forza Horizon 6 news cycle, this cover leak is just the latest in a series of information drops. Earlier this month, an in-game advertisement accidentally appeared in Forza Horizon 5, revealing that the game will launch on May 19, 2026. Premium Edition buyers will get early access starting May 15, giving them four extra days to explore Japan’s winding roads and neon-lit cities.
VGC reportedly confirmed this release window with their sources, lending credibility to what initially seemed like an accidental leak. The pop-up mentioned over 550 real-world cars will be available at launch, alongside various edition-exclusive content including VIP membership, car passes, and a pre-tuned exclusive Ferrari J50 for Premium Edition buyers.
What to Expect from the Premium Edition
Based on the leaked information, Forza Horizon 6 will launch with three editions. The Premium Edition stands out as the most comprehensive package, including several enticing bonuses beyond early access.
Premium Edition Contents
- Four days early access starting May 15, 2026
- VIP Membership with exclusive perks
- Welcome Pack with starter vehicles and credits
- Car Pass for regular post-launch vehicle additions
- Time Attack Car Pack
- Pre-tuned and exclusive Ferrari J50
- Italian Passion Car Pack (post-launch)
- Two Premium Expansions (post-launch)
The inclusion of Italian-themed content in a Japan-set game shows Playground Games isn’t limiting themselves geographically when it comes to vehicle selection. This makes sense given the franchise’s history of featuring cars from around the world, regardless of location setting.
Japan Setting Confirmed Earlier
The Japan setting for Forza Horizon 6 was actually leaked months before the official announcement. Back in August 2025, vehicle import company Cult and Classic posted (then quickly deleted) an Instagram story showing Forza Horizon staff digitally scanning Japanese Kei cars at their Australian facility. The post explicitly mentioned these scans were for “the next installation in the series.”
Microsoft officially confirmed the Japan setting during Tokyo Game Show in September 2025, releasing a cinematic teaser featuring Mount Fuji and various Japanese landmarks. The announcement was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans who had been requesting a Japan-based Horizon Festival for years.
PlayStation 5 Version Coming Later
In a significant franchise first, Forza Horizon 6 will eventually launch on PlayStation 5, though not simultaneously with the Xbox and PC versions. Microsoft has confirmed the PS5 version will arrive post-launch, marking a major shift in the company’s platform strategy. This decision reflects Microsoft’s broader gaming approach under Phil Spencer’s leadership, prioritizing game availability across multiple platforms.
Xbox Developer Direct Tonight
All eyes turn to tonight’s Xbox Developer Direct, where Playground Games will finally pull back the curtain on gameplay footage. The showcase is scheduled for 1 PM EST (11:30 PM IST), and Microsoft has promised an in-depth look at how Japan’s diverse landscapes, culture, and automotive scene are represented in the game.
Alongside Forza Horizon 6, the event will feature substantial reveals for Fable (another long-awaited Playground Games title) and Game Freak’s Beast of Reincarnation. It’s shaping up to be one of the most significant Xbox showcases in recent memory, especially considering this year marks Xbox’s 25th anniversary.
FAQs
When does Forza Horizon 6 release?
Forza Horizon 6 releases on May 19, 2026, according to leaked information. Premium Edition buyers get early access starting May 15, 2026.
What car is on the Forza Horizon 6 cover?
The Toyota GR GT serves as the cover car for Forza Horizon 6, as revealed in leaked box art from reliable insider billbil-kun.
Where is Forza Horizon 6 set?
Forza Horizon 6 takes place in Japan, featuring iconic locations like Mount Fuji and showcasing Japanese automotive culture throughout the game world.
How many cars will be in Forza Horizon 6?
The game will feature over 550 real-world cars at launch, according to the leaked in-game advertisement that appeared in Forza Horizon 5.
Is Forza Horizon 6 coming to PlayStation?
Yes, Forza Horizon 6 will launch on PlayStation 5 post-launch, marking the first time a mainline Forza game appears on Sony’s platform.
What platforms will Forza Horizon 6 be available on?
Forza Horizon 6 launches on Xbox Series X/S and PC on May 19, 2026, with a PlayStation 5 version arriving at a later unannounced date.
What comes with the Forza Horizon 6 Premium Edition?
The Premium Edition includes four days early access, VIP membership, welcome pack, car pass, Time Attack car pack, exclusive Ferrari J50, Italian Passion car pack, and two premium expansions.
Will Forza Horizon 6 be on Game Pass?
While not officially confirmed, previous Forza Horizon titles launched day-one on Xbox Game Pass, making it highly likely Forza Horizon 6 will follow the same pattern.
The Road Ahead
With the cover art now leaked and the release date seemingly locked in for May, the countdown to Forza Horizon 6 has officially begun. Tonight’s Developer Direct will answer many remaining questions about gameplay mechanics, the size of the Japan map, and what new features Playground Games has cooked up for this sixth mainline entry.
The choice of Japan as a setting has been a fan request for nearly a decade, and based on early reactions to the leaks and teasers, Playground Games appears ready to deliver something special. Between the diverse Japanese landscapes ranging from Tokyo’s urban sprawl to rural mountain passes, the cultural significance of automotive enthusiasm in Japan, and the promise of over 550 cars, Forza Horizon 6 is positioning itself as potentially the biggest entry in the franchise yet.