Defender to take on Dakar in 2026

This move marks a major step for the brand as it puts its toughest off-road model to the ultimate test in some of the world’s most gruelling endurance races.

Defender will field two competition-spec vehicles in all five rounds of the W2RC under the ‘Stock’ category for production-based vehicles. For the Dakar Rally, the team will expand to three entries. The decision to use the Defender OCTA—billed as the fastest and most capable Defender yet—was ideal given its off-road capability and durability.

By 2026, new regulations will make the ‘Stock’ category more competitive, allowing high-performance 4x4s and SUVs to showcase their capabilities. Defender Managing Director Mark Cameron sees this as an opportunity to prove the vehicle’s endurance in the toughest rally conditions.

“Taking on Dakar is the ultimate test for our most extreme Defender. We know the challenge will be immense, but the Defender OCTA has the performance, capability, and durability to compete at a high level,” Cameron said.

JLR Motorsport Managing Director James Barclay echoed this sentiment, emphasising the importance of the revised regulations. “We had a vision for the future of production-based rally raid vehicles. Working with the ASO, FIA, and manufacturers, we’ve helped create a category that lets us showcase Defender’s capability in the toughest off-road events.”

The competition vehicle will retain the Defender OCTA’s D7x body architecture, known for its strength and rigidity. It will also feature the same 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine. Testing and development are already underway, with a full team launch planned before the 2026 season begins.