Land Rover fan or not, if you’re into off-roading at all, you’ve most likely heard of the glorious Camel Trophy, the golden era when mud-caked Defenders slogged it out through some of the most inhospitable places on the planet. Think tropical Borneo, icy Siberia, or the unforgiving Amazon. For many, nothing can come close to those images of classic boxy 4x4s buried in jungle muck to their door handles and truly defined off-road adventure in the wild.
Now, Land Rover is bringing back that spirit in the modern era, and this time, they’re going global. The British marque’s best-seller, the modern-day Defender that launched in 2019, has announced the launch of Defender Trophy, a bold new challenge inspired by those legendary expeditions of the 1980s and ‘90s. Designed to test both man and machine, this multi-stage competition invites applicants from over 50 countries to prove their mettle across a series of challenges and extreme terrain, culminating in a grand finale in Africa in 2026.
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. – Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender
The eligibility criteria is pretty rigorous: Entrants must be over the age of 23, be legally eligible to drive and travel internationally, and possess the ability to swim 50 meters. But above all, participants need what Defender calls an ‘unstoppable spirit of adventure’.
This challenge represents a reimagined test of teamwork, endurance, and ingenuity. Hosted with the brand’s long-term conservation partner, TUSK, contestants will battle their way through local qualifiers, beginning this summer, followed by national finals next year. On each of the three stages of the journey, participants will also contribute towards having a lasting impact on the communities and landscapes they pass through.
To mark the occasion, Land Rover has unveiled the Defender 110 Trophy Edition. Finished in heritage-inspired hues such as Deep Sunglow Yellow or Keswick Green, this special edition features a host of adventure-ready hardware: 20-inch gloss-black wheels wrapped in all-terrain rubber, a raised air intake, roof rack, deployable ladder, and a side-mounted gear carrier. There’s form with function too, with Black brake calipers and Trophy graphics.
Inside, though, things are well-appointed with Ebony Windsor Leather, illuminated treadplates, and the exposed crossbeam color-matched to the exterior. It is laser-etched trim with Trophy branding and exudes expedition pedigree. With a global audience watching and a renewed sense of adventure, the Defender Trophy calls for a new generation to embrace the great outdoors. Watch this space.
Source: Land Rover