Focus on off-roaders
Land Rover will organise the inaugural Defender Trophy competition, offering selected participants from key markets a place in a global off-road driving challenge. The event is designed to inspire global change for conservation while testing vehicle handling and navigation skills in remote and rugged terrain.
Land Rover has previously run similar events in Europe and North America.
Participants worldwide can compete for a spot in the global final, scheduled to take place in Africa in 2026. Those who succeed will embark on a special mission in partnership with Tusk, Defender’s conservation ally.
The journey begins with local applications and selections, progresses through rigorous qualification rounds, and culminates in the global final in October 2026. The exact location of the final will be announced in August 2026.
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The latest edition of the Defender Trophy will centre on the Defender 110 Trophy, a limited version of the Defender SUV. The vehicle is based on the Defender P400 X-Dynamic SE and features enhancements specifically designed for off-road performance.
Participants will face three demanding rounds of training and competition, with tasks involving physical endurance, driving precision, and teamwork. The final will be held in the UK, with support from Land Rover’s specialised off-road instructors.
Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender, said: “Global adventure and community have been the fabric of the Defender brand’s DNA for decades, staying true to its roots that can be traced back to the original Land Rover of 1948.
“Our unique new global adventure challenge will bring nations together as competitors cooperate to navigate rugged terrain, conquer extreme physical challenges, and solve tactical tests – all united by a greater purpose.
“Working with Tusk, our conservation partner of more than 20 years, we will bring epic adventure to a new generation of enthusiasts, watching online, while leaving a legacy we can be proud of. If you embrace the impossible and share our unstoppable spirit of adventure, this is the challenge for you,” Cameron added.
While the upcoming competition promotes brand engagement, it is positioned as a skills-based event rather than a commercial showcase. There is no direct cash prize, but the experience aims to highlight the Defender’s capabilities in challenging environments.
Competitors can register through national retailers, with winners from regional trials advancing to the main challenge.
Middle East customers are eligible to participate, with Land Rover dealerships in the region facilitating entry and preparation.
Individuals who embody the values of the original British adventure brand are eligible to enter the inaugural Defender Trophy. Eligibility requirements include being a resident of a participating country, being at least 23 years old, being able to swim 50m, being eligible to drive and travel internationally, and having a fluent command of English.
What is Tusk?
Tusk is a UK-registered charity founded in 1990 in response to high levels of elephant and rhino poaching across Africa. It supports over 50 conservation projects across more than 20 African countries, safeguarding over 50 million hectares of habitat and protecting around 40 threatened species.
Its work focuses on boosting locally led conservation efforts by funding grassroots initiatives, supporting education, and mitigating human–wildlife conflict.
With the late Prince William as royal patron since 2005, Tusk channels international funding into long-term strategies that benefit both wildlife and local communities. It has invested over $100 million and maintains a reputation for efficient delivery and a substantial community impact.
Hero image: Defender Trophy participants will face three demanding rounds of training and competition. Credit: Land Rover
