Defender, the legendary British 4×4 brand synonymous with adventure and rugged capability, is set to make its mark on the world’s toughest rally raid event, the Dakar Rally. Beginning in 2025, Defender will become the official car partner of the Dakar, a partnership that will extend to 2028. Taking the collaboration to the next level, Defender will also debut an official works team in 2026, entering the race for the first time in its history.
An Unprecedented Partnership
Starting with the 2025 Dakar Rally, scheduled from January 3–17, Defender will supply a fleet of vehicles to support rally officials and VIP media. This fleet will showcase the brand’s hallmark durability and capability throughout the grueling event. Among the lineup will be six specially developed Defender recce vehicles, used by Dakar officials to scout and test routes for future rallies.
This collaboration marks a significant milestone for both the Dakar and Defender. With its iconic presence and proven off-road prowess, Defender will provide vital support to the event’s operations while reinforcing its reputation as the ultimate adventure vehicle.
A New Chapter for Defender
From 2026, Defender will take its participation even further with a works entry in the Dakar. Competing in the world’s most demanding off-road motorsport event will serve as the ultimate test of Defender’s engineering excellence. The program will be led by James Barclay, JLR Motorsport Managing Director, who emphasized the challenges and opportunities of this bold endeavor.
Barclay commented: “The Dakar is the Everest of motorsport. Our first factory entry is the beginning of an ambitious journey. We’re already making strides and are excited for what lies ahead.”
Details about Defender’s rally raid competition program, including the specifications of the competing vehicles, will be revealed at the 2025 Dakar Rally.
Defender’s Enduring Legacy
The Dakar Rally, renowned for its extreme conditions and challenges, is a natural fit for Defender. Its legendary reliability and off-road expertise have made it a global icon of endurance and exploration. Mark Cameron, Defender Managing Director, shared his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Adventure is at the heart of Defender, and Dakar is the ultimate motorsport adventure. Together, we will embrace the impossible.”
A Glimpse of Dakar 2025
The 47th edition of the Dakar Rally will once again take place in Saudi Arabia, following a route from Bisha to Shubaytah. Competitors will face a grueling three-day journey through the Empty Quarter, concluding an epic test of human and mechanical endurance. Defender’s presence as the official car partner will add an exciting new dimension to the event.
Key Highlights:
- Partnership Timeline: 2025–2028
- Defender’s Role: Official car partner and fleet provider (support and recce vehicles)
- Works Team Entry: 2026 Dakar Rally
- Leadership: James Barclay, JLR Motorsport Managing Director
Defender’s journey with Dakar represents a bold step into the future of motorsport adventure, combining its legendary heritage with cutting-edge innovation.
Source: Landrover
This article was crafted with assistance from Chatgpt
