2026 Ford Mustang RTR: Drift-Ready from the Factory

In partnership with RTR, Ford set out to create the most exciting, fun-to-drive, turbocharged Mustang ever. Hear from Ryan Shaughnessy, Mustang brand manager, and Vaughn Gittin, Jr., RTR Vehicles founder, about the inspiration and dedication behind the collaboration:

Ryan Shaughnessy: Vaughn, the RTR Package is about to hit the streets as the first factory-built Ford Mustang RTR. Take me back to where this whole idea started for you.

Vaughn Gittin, Jr.: Man, Ryan, this is such a pinch me moment that has been the dream since I launched RTR back in 2009. I was 29 years old with no real master plan except one thing: make Mustang cool and exciting for the next generation. I took Mustang drifting, went head-to-head with the cars and drivers that built the sport, and proved that a V8-powered American muscle car could throw down with the smaller and perceivably more nimble sports cars on their own turf. Now, 15-plus years later, we're showing what a factory-built, RTR-badged Mustang is all about. This is every bit as meaningful as any race I've ever won …

https://www.fromtheroad.ford.com/us/en/articles/2025/inside-2026-mustang-rtr-development

(photo credit: Ford)