DEFENDER RALLY
European Model Shown.
RALLY TOGETHER, WIN AS ONE
Defender made history at the 2026 Dakar Rally, claiming victory in the Stock category on its debut. Over two weeks of punishing desert terrain, the Defender D7X‑R- developed from the Defender OCTA, and built on the same production line as all Defenders - delivered multiple stage wins and a clean sweep of podium finishes for consecutive days.
European Model Shown.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
Rokas Baciuška and Oriol Vidal secured the overall Stock class title, supported by teammates Sara Price and Sean Berriman in second place and Dakar legend Stéphane Peterhansel with Michaël Metge in fourth.
This marks an exciting new chapter for Defender in motorsport, with the D7X‑R proving its endurance and durability reinforcing Defender as the ultimate expression of strength and resilience.
MISSION ACCOMPLISHED
Rokas Baciuška and Oriol Vidal secured the overall Stock class title, supported by teammates Sara Price and Sean Berriman in second place and Dakar legend Stéphane Peterhansel with Michaël Metge in fourth.
This marks an exciting new chapter for Defender in motorsport, with the D7X‑R proving its endurance and durability reinforcing Defender as the ultimate expression of strength and resilience.
RALLY-RAID READY
See Defender Rally push it to extremes for the team’s Dakar debut.
European Model Shown.
STRONG FOUNDATIONS
The Defender Dakar D7X-R competed in the new 'Stock' category for production-based cars at the 2026 Dakar Rally. Derived from Defender OCTA, the rally cars use the same powerful 4,4-litre twin turbo V8 powertrain as well as the tough core Defender architecture.
European Model Shown.
BORN TO RUN
The D7X-R’s bodyshell was assembled on the production line at Defender vehicle's state-of-the-art Nitra Manufacturing center in Slovakia, before bespoke final build to ‘Stock’ rally-raid specification was completed by the Defender Rally team in the UK.
European Model Shown.
DRIVERS
Three rally legends will compete for Defender in all rally-raid events.
STÉPHANE PETERHANSEL
ROKAS BACIUŠKA
SARA PRICE
NAVIGATORS
Each of our drivers will be joined by an experienced navigator.
MIKA METGE
ORIOL VIDAL
SEAN BERRIMAN
SUSTAINABLE FUEL
The Defender Dakar D7X-R runs on an advanced sustainable fuel, as defined and compliant with FIA regulations*.
European Model Shown.
OUR PARTNERSHIPS
A portfolio of world-class partners has joined Defender Rally for the 2026 World Rally-Raid Championship.
CASTROL
Castrol is driven by a passion for performance and a philosophy of working in partnership, enabling them to develop products that contribute to technological feats on land, in the air, sea, and space. Their partnership with Defender Rally will put its range of lubricants to the test in extreme environments across the World Rally‑Raid Championship, showcasing their performance and technology in action.
YETI
Headquartered in Austin, Texas, YETI is a global designer, retailer and distributor of innovative outdoor products. From coolers and drinkware to backpacks and bags, YETI products are built to meet the unique and varying needs of diverse outdoor pursuits, whether in the remote wilderness, at the beach, or anywhere life takes their customers.
By consistently delivering high-performing, exceptional products, YETI have built a strong following of brand loyalists throughout the world, ranging from serious outdoor enthusiasts to individuals who simply value products of uncompromising quality and design. YETI have an unwavering commitment to outdoor and recreation communities, and are relentless in their pursuit of building superior products for people to confidently enjoy life outdoors and beyond.
BILSTEIN
For more than 70 years, BILSTEIN has been working with leading vehicle manufacturers to develop shock absorbers for the perfect driving experience. Innovative, exclusive, trusted and precisely tailored to the individual performance characteristics of each vehicle model. Each BILSTEIN product is engineered for original equipment and the aftermarket, ensuring maximum performance and durability. Their close cooperation with premium manufacturers and global network makes BILSTEIN a leading technology partner.
BELL & ROSS
The history of Bell & Ross began in 1994, driven by two friends, Carlos-A. Rosillo and Bruno Belamich, both passionate about watchmaking and aviation. With a Franco-Swiss heritage, Bell & Ross quickly became a reference in the field of professional aviation watches. In 2005, the company revolutionized watch design codes with the creation of the BR-01, inspired by aeronautical instruments. The iconic "circle within a square" was born, becoming its visual signature.
Bell & Ross then established its distinctive design at the heart of every collection: the professional BR-03 collection, the urban BR 05 collection, and the avant-garde BR-X5 manufacture line. Synthesizing innovation and watchmaking excellence, Bell & Ross embodies the motto "From the cockpit to the wrist," catering to extreme professionals as well as individuals seeking functional and distinctive watches. The watchmaking company is present in over 80 countries through a carefully selected international network of 600 retailers and 25 exclusive boutiques.
SHACKLETON
Inspired by the life and leadership of polar titan Sir Ernest Shackleton and supported by his descendants, Shackleton is a British exploration and supply company that exists to inspire, enable and equip adventurers to live courageously.
Established in 2017 by Co-founders Martin Brooks and Ian Holdcroft, Shackleton designs high performance technical apparel for adventurers in extreme environments and offers exploration travel experiences worldwide from the Himalayas to the deserts of Oman and the extremes of Antarctica.
ALPINESTARS
Alpinestars is a world‑leading manufacturer of professional racing products; high‑performance apparel and technical footwear. Since its inception in 1963, the success of Alpinestars has been underpinned by constant product innovation, research, development and technical excellence.
Alpinestars employs over 500 staff worldwide; with HQs in Northern Italy, Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Singapore.
The company’s involvement in F1, WRC, Formula E, Motocross, Dakar and MotoGP has led to the creation of the most advanced technical equipment for world racing’s top teams and athletes.
*Complies with FIA regulations – ‘FIA Appendix J, Article 266 - Energy Regulations for Competition Vehicles, Article 3 - Advanced Sustainable Fuel, 3.2 AS Gas’.