The new Defender Trophy. Is this the challenge you’ve been waiting for?

Defender is looking for individuals with an unstoppable spirit of adventure to take part in a new kind of competition. The new Defender Trophy is inspired by past Trophy and Challenge events, but will create its own legacy over three demanding rounds of training and competition. Only those with an open mind and a passion for global conservation should apply. An epic adventure, a lofty goal.


The Defender has been the vehicle of choice for explorers and expedition leaders for decades, and the new global initiative is inviting entries from over 50 countries. The application process will open in September. Local selections will begin next spring, before national finals in autumn 2026 decide who will advance to the global finals, which will be held in Africa in 2026 in collaboration with conservation partner Tusk. The winners will be given the unique opportunity to join an epic mission to ensure the Defender Trophy leaves a positive and lasting legacy on the people and places it encounters.

An epic expedition requires an epic vehicle. The new Defender 110 Trophy Edition will be synonymous with adventure for a new generation of enthusiasts as the competition is watched by a global online audience. Bringing the spirit of the event to the streets, the Trophy Edition is available to order in two exclusive heritage-inspired colours – Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green – with specially selected adventure-ready specifications.

Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender, said: “Global adventure and global community have been part of the brand’s DNA for decades. Defender remains true to its roots, which date back to the original Land Rover in 1948. Our unique new global adventure challenge will unite nations, as competitors work together to navigate difficult terrain, conquer extreme physical challenges and solve tactical tests – all united by a common goal. By working with Tusk, our conservation partner with over 20 years of experience, we are bringing epic adventure to a new generation of enthusiasts who will watch it online, while creating a legacy we can be proud of. If you embrace the impossible and share our unstoppable spirit of adventure, this challenge is for you.”

Defender is looking for individuals who embody the values ​​of the original British adventure brand to enter the inaugural Defender Trophy. Eligibility requirements include: entrants must be resident in a participating country, be over 23 years of age, be able to swim 50m, have the right to drive and travel abroad and be fluent in English. An unstoppable spirit is essential.

For full eligibility requirements2, visit https://croatia.landrover.com/defender/defender-trophy/overview.