Calling all trailblazers
If you’ve ever stood at the edge of a riverbed, mud-splattered bakkie behind you, wondering what it might feel like to take part in a proper off-road expedition – one that tests your mettle, muscle, and mind – then the new Defender Trophy might just be your ticket to glory. Combining legendary 4×4 heritage with a modern-day global challenge, this epic new competition invites everyday adventurers to channel their inner explorer and prove they’ve got what it takes when the terrain gets tough and the stakes get high.
A legacy of adventure reborn
Inspired by the legendary Camel Trophy and the golden era of gruelling cross-continental 4×4 events, the Defender Trophy is no ordinary contest. This isn’t about clocking fast laps or smooth tar-road cruising – it’s about grit, resolve, and teamwork in some of the planet’s most demanding environments. For decades, Land Rovers have been the go-to vehicles for explorers, humanitarians, and documentary crews heading into the unknown. The new Defender Trophy taps into that storied DNA, offering would-be adventurers from more than 50 countries a chance to write the next chapter in this off-road saga.
Starting with local selection events later this year, the journey will move through regional finals in 2026 before culminating in an epic global showdown on African soil – fittingly hosted with long-time Defender conservation partner, Tusk. The final won’t just be a test of off-road skill and endurance, but also of character, collaboration, and commitment to a greater cause.
Proving yourself where it counts
More than just a muddy dash, the Defender Trophy is designed to push entrants to their physical and mental limits. Successful competitors will need to drive, navigate, solve, strategise and – possibly – swim. Yes, one of the eligibility requirements is the ability to swim 50 metres, so it’s not just metaphorical deep water participants might find themselves in.
Contestants will be scored individually but compete in pairs, adding a strategic twist to the format. Low-ranked competitors will have first choice when picking their teammates – so brains, brawn and likability could all come into play. Tasks will span driving challenges over rocky trails and dodgy drop-offs, ingenuity tests requiring fast thinking under pressure, and physically demanding stages where teamwork and stamina are essential.
And while the competition is intense, the goal is bigger than just bragging rights. The winners of the final round will have the opportunity to take part in a unique conservation mission – leaving a tangible, positive impact on the people and environments they encounter.
Meet the new Defender 110 Trophy Edition
Of course, an epic competition deserves an equally epic vehicle – and the newly unveiled Defender 110 Trophy Edition is ready to meet the challenge head-on. With rugged off-road upgrades, heritage styling, and enough attitude to scare off a charging rhino, this special edition vehicle brings a bold visual nod to the brand’s expedition history while being packed with modern capability.
Available in two exclusive colours – Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green – the Trophy Edition features a Gloss Black bonnet, all-terrain tyres wrapped around 20-inch wheels, and a selection of expedition-ready extras. These include a roof rack, deployable roof ladder, raised air intake, and a side-mounted gear carrier for all the muddy or wet kit that no one wants inside the cabin.
Interior comforts haven’t been ignored either. From Ebony Windsor Leather seats to illuminated Trophy treadplates and a painted cross-car beam with laser-etched branding, it strikes a perfect balance between durability and Defender-style luxury.
While the vehicle itself won’t necessarily be your ride during the competition, it’s very much a physical embodiment of the Trophy’s adventurous spirit – and yes, you can buy one. Locally, the Defender 110 Trophy Edition is available now from R2 227 800.
Who should enter?
The Defender Trophy is open to individuals over 23 who are residents of a participating country (South Africa is one), able to travel internationally, drive legally, swim 50 metres, and speak English. More importantly, you’ll need that elusive quality of an unstoppable spirit. This isn’t a weekend jolly for keyboard warriors – it’s a proper test, and the type of opportunity that doesn’t come around often. So, if you’ve got a sense of adventure, some decent driving chops, and the hunger to be part of something unforgettable, now’s your moment. Entries are open until 31 July 2025, and you can throw your name into the hat via the official Defender Trophy website
