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Epic Adventures: Defender’s Three-Year Dakar and FIA W2RC Programme Set to Begin in 2026
Land Rover Defender has announced an ambitious works team entry into the world of off-road motorsport, marking its return to competitive rallying with a three-year programme in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC). Starting in 2026, Defender will compete in the ‘Stock’ category, showcasing the toughness and reliability of its production vehicles on one of the planet’s most grueling stages—the Dakar Rally.
A New Chapter for Defender in Off-Road Motorsport
From 2026 to 2028, Defender will field a two-car entry for all five rounds of the W2RC, with an additional third vehicle competing in the iconic Dakar Rally, the pinnacle of rally-raid events. The competition will adhere to updated sporting and technical regulations designed to elevate the ‘Stock’ category, making it a more competitive and thrilling platform.
This programme is a testament to Defender’s engineering prowess, built upon its purpose-driven D7x architecture. The lightweight aluminium monocoque construction delivers a body structure three times stiffer than traditional designs, ensuring the vehicle’s readiness for the extreme conditions of the Dakar Rally.
Rigorous Testing and Preparation
Land Rover has already initiated an intensive development programme for its Defender works team. The testing phase will culminate in a competitive trial during autumn 2025, paving the way for the official team launch ahead of Dakar 2026. Defender’s Managing Director, Mark Cameron, highlighted the excitement and challenges of this new adventure, emphasizing the meticulous preparation required to meet the FIA’s new regulations.
James Barclay, JLR Motorsport Managing Director, echoed the sentiment, referring to Dakar as the "Everest of motorsport." The development of Defender within the new W2RC rules signifies a significant engineering and human achievement, promising an exhilarating journey ahead.
Defender’s Role in the 2025 Dakar Rally
While the Defender works team won’t officially compete until 2026, the brand will play a prominent role in the 2025 Dakar Rally as the event’s official vehicle partner. A fleet of 20 Defenders will support race officials and VIP media, while six specialized recce vehicles will assist organizers in mapping future rally routes. This presence underscores Defender’s ongoing commitment to off-road excellence and innovation.
Driving into the Future
Defender’s participation in the FIA W2RC highlights the brand’s dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing the spirit of adventure. The rigorous demands of the Dakar Rally provide an ideal stage to showcase the unmatched capability and durability of the production Defender. By aligning with cutting-edge motorsport, Land Rover is setting a benchmark for reliability and performance in the highly competitive off-road segment.
Whether you’re a motorsport enthusiast or an adventurer looking for rugged reliability, the Land Rover Defender is a standout option. For those in Dubai, explore cars for sale in Dubai at Auto Trader UAE to discover the perfect Land Rover Defender for your off-road needs.
