Are you built for adventure? Then listen up, because the adventure of a lifetime is on our doorstep. The Defender Trophy has launched to test your skill and give you the opportunity to change lives with Tusk.
South Africa (18 September 2025) – If adventure is what you live for, then this is the challenge for you! The Defender Trophy has been launched, merging challenges of old with new innovations for an all-new format of iconic Defender exploration.
The Defender has been the vehicle of choice for explorers and expedition leaders for decades, so it’s only fitting that the brand launch an all-new Defender Trophy Edition and Challenge to excite those who dream of crossing vast rivers, scaling mountainsides and driving through panoramic vistas. It will test endurance, skill and purpose.
The Defender Trophy is open to entrants from 50 countries with three selection rounds, training and the ultimate final in Africa! For South Africa, local selections take place later this year, followed by national finals in 2026.
Because there is no greater location for adventure, all finalists will join the conservation charity Tusk, right here in Africa, to leave a lasting legacy in conservation. It’s more than winning; it’s about working towards being a driving force for change.
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender shares how adventure and conservation are woven into the fabric of Defender, a part of its DNA.
“Global adventure and community have been the fabric of the Defender brand’s DNA for decades, staying true to its roots that can be traced back to the original Land Rover of 1948. Our unique new global adventure challenge will bring nations together, as competitors co-operate to navigate tough terrain, conquer extreme physical challenges and solve tactical tests – all united by a greater purpose.
“Working with Tusk, our conservation partner of more than 20 years, we will bring epic adventure to a new generation of enthusiasts, watching online, while leaving a legacy we can be proud of. If you embrace the impossible and share our unstoppable spirit of adventure, this is the challenge for you.”
For lifelong Defender enthusiasts, you will recognise two heritage-inspired Defender hues – Deep Sandglow Yellow and Keswick Green. As part of the launch, the Defender 110 Trophy Edition offers a range of expedition accessories, making it perfect for adventure enthusiasts.
So, How Will It Work?
Those wanting to apply will need to be over the age of 23 and eligible to drive and travel internationally. The competition will be tough, so entrants need to be able to swim 50 meters, endure rugged terrain and take on physical challenges.
Entries close at the end of September 2025. Therafter, applicants will go through local and regional rounds before qualifying for the finals in 2026. Finalists will compete in pairs, where they will need to showcase their skills for Driving, Ingenuity, and Physical Challenges designed to test grit, teamwork, and mental sharpness.
- Driving Challenges will push navigation and driving skills to the limit over rugged terrain.
- Ingenuity Challenges will test problem-solving, quick thinking, and collaboration under pressure.
- Physical Challenges will demand coordination, strength, and resilience — traversing rivers, scaling rock faces, and more.
Participants will be scored individually but compete in rotating pairings, with a strategic element added: the lowest-ranked competitor selects their teammate before each stage. This ensures continuous adaptation and tests interpersonal dynamics.
If adventure is what you seek, enter here, now!
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