Defender invites those with an unbreakable spirit and a thirst for challenge to take on the Defender Trophy—a reimagined competition inspired by the legendary Trophy and Challenge events of the past. Spanning three intense rounds of training and adventure, this global contest is designed for individuals who dare to push boundaries and share a deep commitment to conservation. This is more than a competition—it’s a mission. Epic Adventure. Greater Purpose.
Defender has been the vehicle of choice of explorers and expedition leaders for decades and the new global initiative is inviting entries in more than 50 countries. Local selections will begin this summer, before national finals next spring determine who will make it to the global final hosted with Defender conservation partner Tusk – in Africa – in 2026.
Winners will get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to team-up for an epic mission that will ensure Defender Trophy leaves a positive and lasting legacy on the people and places it encounters.
An epic expedition needs an epic vehicle. The new Defender 110 Trophy Edition will signify adventure to a new generation of enthusiasts, as the competition will be watched by a global online audience. Bringing the event’s spirit to the streets, the Trophy Edition is available to order in a choice of two exclusive heritage-inspired colours – Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green – with a specially chosen adventure-ready specification.
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 co-operate to navigate tough 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.”
Defender is seeking individuals who embody the values of the original British adventure brand to enter the inaugural Defender Trophy. Eligibility requirements include: entrants are resident in a participating country, over 23 years old, can swim 50m, eligible to drive and travel internationally, and speak fluent English. An unstoppable spirit is essential.
New Defender 110 Trophy Edition: Built for Adventure
The Defender 110 Trophy Edition marks Defender’s return to international adventure challenges, blending heritage styling with rugged capability. Available exclusively in Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green, it features a Gloss Black contrast finish on key exterior elements, with an optional Matte Protective Film for added durability.
Key highlights:
- Adventure-Ready Design: Gloss Black 20-inch alloys with all-terrain tyres, rear scuff plate, wheelarch protection, and front undershield.
- Unique Styling: Trophy decals, rear badging, illuminated treadplates, Ebony Windsor leather seats, and a colour-matched Cross Car Beam with laser-etched Trophy branding.
- Expedition Accessories: Optional gear includes an Expedition Roof Rack, Deployable Roof Ladder, Side-Mounted Gear Carrier, Mud Flaps, and Raised Air Intake for enhanced off-road utility.
Crafted for those who seek challenge and champion exploration, the Trophy Edition is Defender’s tribute to adventure. The new Defender 110 Trophy Edition is available to order now. www.landrover.com/defender
Defender Trophy: A Global Challenge of Grit, Skill, and Purpose
The Defender Trophy is a one-of-a-kind global competition combining physical endurance, mental agility, and teamwork. Participants from over 50 countries will go through local and regional selection rounds, leading up to the global final in Africa in Autumn 2026, hosted with conservation partner Tusk.
Competition Format:
- Teams compete in pairs, but are scored individually, with team selection reshuffled at each stage.
- Three challenge categories:
- Driving Challenges: Tough terrain, steep climbs, and tricky navigation.
- Ingenuity Challenges: Fast thinking and creative problem-solving.
- Physical Challenges: Strength and coordination in rugged environments like rivers and canyons.
The entire journey will be shared with a global audience, showcasing a new wave of adventure challenge heroes. The ultimate winners will complete a lasting conservation mission, leaving a real-world legacy—Epic Adventure, Greater Purpose.
