Defender Trophy, the adventure challenge begins

ROME - Once upon a time there was the Camel Trophy, an off-road competition that for 20 years, from 1980 to 2000, put men and vehicles to the test with a series of exciting challenges that became synonymous with adventure. Today, Land Rover is reviving that spirit with the “Defender Trophy” together with sustainability partner Tusk Trust, which through three demanding rounds of training and competition calls together those who challenge the impossible, driven by a passion for nature conservation.

“Adventure and global communities have been part of the Defender brand’s DNA for decades, true to its roots which can be traced back to the original Land Rover in 1948,” said Defender Managing Director Mark Cameron. “Our new adventure challenge will bring nations together, as competitors work together to navigate challenging terrain, overcome extreme physical challenges and solve tactical tests together, united by a greater purpose. Working with Tusk, our conservation partner for more than 20 years, we will bring an epic adventure to a new generation of fans, who can follow it online, and leave behind an achievement they can be proud of. If you defy the impossible and share our unstoppable spirit of adventure, this is the challenge for you.”

Defender Trophy participants will face obstacles, mental and physical challenges, in a unique test of ingenuity, willpower and teamwork. Applications are open until December 31st and eligibility requirements are as follows: be a resident of a participating country, be over 23 years old, be able to swim 50 meters, be able to drive and travel internationally and be fluent in English. Applicants from over 50 countries will begin their journey to the epic global final through a series of local selection events. Early next year, regional finals will identify national winners who will travel to Africa for the global final in autumn 2026.

Teams will then have to complete a variety of driving, ingenuity and physical challenges. Driving Challenges, demanding tests of driving skill and navigational ability as teams tackle difficult trails, rocky slopes and hidden drop-offs. Ingenuity Challenges, innovation will be the key to success as teams will have to think fast, work smart and stay calm. Physical Challenges, demanding feats of physical strength, coordination and teamwork as our teams cross canyons or rivers.

The public will be able to follow the teams’ progress online, which will be shared around the world.

To mark the occasion, Land Rover is also launching the new Defender 110 Trophy Edition available to order (prices starting from €104,600), in a choice of two exclusive heritage-inspired colours – Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green – with a specification specifically selected for adventure, plus a range of Expedition accessories.