Land Rover is set to make its mark on the Dakar Rally in 2026, with a factory-backed Defender rally car. The British automaker has also secured a partnership with the event, becoming the official Dakar car partner from 2025 to 2028.
This bold move aims to showcase the Defender’s extreme durability and off-road capabilities in one of the world’s most challenging motorsport events. While the specific details of the rally car are yet to be revealed, it is expected to be significantly modified from the standard production model to meet the demanding requirements of the Dakar Rally.
Leading the Defender’s Dakar campaign is JLR Motorsport Managing Director, James Barclay. He expressed excitement about the challenge ahead, acknowledging the significant learning curve involved in competing at this level. More information about the team’s strategy and the specific modifications to the Defender rally car will be unveiled during the 2025 Dakar Rally.
In addition to the racing effort, Land Rover will provide a fleet of Defender vehicles to support the Dakar Rally. This includes a fleet of highly specialized recce vehicles that will be used to test and prepare the race routes. These modified Defenders will likely feature enhanced off-road capabilities and be equipped with the necessary gear for challenging terrain.
The 2025 Dakar Rally promises to be a thrilling event, with a demanding route through the Saudi Arabian desert. Land Rover’s involvement in the event highlights the brand’s commitment to off-road excellence and its desire to push the limits of automotive performance.
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