Ready for an adventure that goes beyond the ordinary? The Defender Trophy is back, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever, promising an epic journey with a purpose. This isn’t just about conquering challenges; it’s about making a real difference. Let’s dive in!
On November 13, 2025, the world officially welcomed the return of the Defender Trophy – a global challenge event that honors the original British adventure brand. The first qualification event has already wrapped up, setting the stage for an unforgettable 2026 adventure.
The first champion of the Defender Trophy
Naoki Imamura is set to represent Japan at the global final in Africa, hosted in partnership with Tusk, a conservation organization.
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Over 10,000 adventurers worldwide have already applied to participate in the Defender Trophy. With six months of training and selection events still to come across seven countries, the competition is heating up.
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To commemorate the 45th anniversary of the historic event, the expedition-ready Defender 110 Trophy Edition met with Camel Trophy legends and enthusiasts at Eastnor Castle in the UK.
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A short film is available to explain how its spirit lives on in Defender Trophy.
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Official Defender Trophy-branded apparel is now available to order from Defender retailers, including items that will be used in the competition itself, and model cars.
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Entries for Defender Trophy remain open in many participating countries.
Defender Trophy Japan Selections
The Defender Trophy is looking for individuals with an unyielding spirit of adventure. The competition, inspired by past Trophy and Challenge events, has already seen over 10,000 applicants.
- Japan kicked off the qualifying rounds, with twenty-four adventurers competing over two days. The challenges tested their intellect, physical strength, and communication skills. These included obstacle courses, equipment transport and setup, bridge construction, night driving, and navigating steep slopes.
What makes the Defender Trophy so special?
The inaugural qualifying round of the Defender Trophy was truly outstanding. Participants embodied the Defender spirit, pushing their limits both physically and by trusting each other. This approach reflects the Defender brand’s ethos of ‘embracing the impossible’.
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The new Defender 110 Trophy Edition will be central to the adventure, celebrating 45 years since the first Camel Trophy. The Deep Sandglow Yellow color, created exclusively for the edition, is a nod to this iconic event.
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Land Rover Classic and Defender proudly hosted the Camel Trophy Club’s 45th Anniversary event at Eastnor Castle in the UK. This event brought together 38 past participants and over 200 enthusiasts.
The Legacy of the Camel Trophy
A new short film on Defender’s YouTube channel, featuring former Camel Trophy participants, explains how the original Trophy spirit of adventure, camaraderie, and teamwork will live on.
- Defender Trophy competitors will need to cooperate to navigate tough terrain, conquer extreme physical challenges, and solve tactical tests – all united by a greater purpose to benefit conservation partner Tusk in Africa.
Gear Up for Adventure
Fans of epic adventures can now purchase official Defender Trophy merchandise, capturing the essence of the experience.
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The collection includes apparel such as waterproof and insulated jackets, T-shirts, and caps.
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Durable items like travel mugs, backpacks, and a lightweight tent are also available.
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Rhino or lion soft toys, with a portion of the proceeds donated to Tusk, and Defender Trophy Edition Icon models complete the range.
About Defender
Defender embraces the impossible. Each member of the Defender family is purposefully designed, highly desirable, and seriously durable. Available in 90, 110, and 130 body styles, with up to eight seats, each has its own unique charisma.
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Defender 110 is available as an electric hybrid.
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Defender Hard Top offers professional capability.
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The Defender OCTA is the master of extreme performance.
A Brand with a Purpose
Defender supports humanitarian and conservation work with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and the Tusk Trust. The Defender brand is underpinned by Land Rover, built on over 75 years of expertise in technology and world-leading off-road capability. Designed and engineered in the UK and sold in 121 countries, Defender is part of the JLR house of brands.
So, what do you think? Are you excited about the return of the Defender Trophy? Do you agree with the brand’s ethos of embracing the impossible? Share your thoughts in the comments below!