FYI: Land Rover revives the legendary Camel Trophy spirit in a daring new global adventure, the Defender Trophy.
Embracing the Legacy: New Defender Trophy Challenge
For those who relish tackling the wild, the Camel Trophy evokes unforgettable images of Land Rover Defenders plunging through harsh terrains like the dense jungles of Borneo, the icy expanses of Siberia, or the perilous Amazon. While the original events etched the Defender’s legacy in the off-roading community, a new chapter is set to unfold.
Land Rover is reigniting the adventurous spirit of the Camel Trophy with the launch of the Defender Trophy, a thrilling global competition inspired by the iconic challenges of the 1980s and ’90s. With the updated Defender as its champion, this multi-stage event invites adventurers from over 50 nations to conquer rugged landscapes, culminating in a grand African finale in 2026.
A Call to Adventure
Candidates must meet stringent requirements: being over 23 years old, possessing valid international driving and travel credentials, and being capable of swimming 50 meters. Most importantly, participants need an ‘unstoppable spirit of adventure’—a trait central to the Defender ethos since its inaugural model in 1948.
Testing the Limits
In collaboration with Land Rover’s conservation partner, TUSK, competitors will face preliminary rounds this summer, advancing to national finals the following year. This journey tests endurance, ingenuity, and teamwork, with each step marked by meaningful contributions to communities and environments encountered along the route.
A Nod to Heritage: The Defender 110 Trophy Edition
To commemorate this occasion, Land Rover unveiled the Defender 110 Trophy Edition. This model, crafted in classic hues like Deep Sunglow Yellow and Keswick Green, is equipped for adventure with features including:
- 20-inch gloss-black wheels ensured with all-terrain tires
- A raised air intake and roof rack
- Deployable ladder and side-mounted gear carrier
Internally, luxury meets ruggedness with Ebony Windsor Leather, illuminated treadplates, and a color-matched crossbeam, underscoring its expedition pedigree.
Conclusion
The Defender Trophy challenges a new generation to embrace the wild, inspire teamwork, and foster a global community spirit. With the world eagerly watching, these ventures promise to reignite the timeless excitement of off-road exploration.
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Steven Hale, Editor of Automotive.fyi
