Defender, the iconic British adventure brand, has announced its official entry into top-tier off-road motorsport with the formation of the Defender Rally Team. This bold new chapter will see the debut of the Defender Dakar D7X-R prototype at the 2026 Dakar Rally, one of the most challenging and prestigious motorsport events in the world. Headlining the team are two exceptional drivers: Stéphane Peterhansel, the most successful Dakar competitor in history, and rising star Rokas Baciuška.
A Champion Joins Defender: Stéphane Peterhansel
Stéphane Peterhansel, a 14-time Dakar Rally winner, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team. Recently, Peterhansel joined the team for testing in Morocco, piloting the Defender D7X-R prototype through early development stages.
“I am delighted to begin a new chapter with Defender,” said Peterhansel. “The World Rally-Raid Championship is the pinnacle of off-road competition, and Defender is an iconic and capable 4×4 – for me, it’s the perfect match. Testing has gone well, and we’re moving in the right direction for Dakar 2026.”
Rokas Baciuška: The Future of Rally-Raid
Joining Peterhansel is Rokas Baciuška, a talented young driver who claimed the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship title in the T4 class in 2022 and has continued to rise ever since. The 2026 season will mark his debut in the new ‘Stock’ category.
“It’s an incredible honour to drive for Defender,” said Baciuška. “Being part of this historic moment – the debut of Defender in the Dakar Rally – is a dream. The brand represents resilience and the spirit of adventure, and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel of the D7X-R for the first time.”
Defender Dakar D7X-R: Built to Conquer
The Defender Dakar D7X-R is a specially developed competition vehicle that maintains strong links to the production Defender. It shares the same D7x aluminium monocoque body, transmission, and driveline layout used in the showroom version.
Under the hood, the prototype is powered by a 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, offering performance and endurance in the harshest rally conditions. Wrapped in a striking camouflage livery, the D7X-R has already undergone extensive testing in the Sahara Desert, validating its reliability, strength, and off-road prowess.
Leadership and Vision
James Barclay, Managing Director of JLR Motorsport, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
“Completing our first official test is a huge step forward. Stéphane and Rokas bring world-class skill and energy to the programme. We’re building momentum fast and have big ambitions.”
Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender, added:
“This is a special moment – not just for the brand, but for our fans. Competing in rally-raid is the ultimate proving ground for Defender’s durability and capability. We’re proud to be entering with a vehicle that stays true to our production roots.”
A New Chapter in the Stock Category
In 2026, the FIA and Dakar organizers will implement new rules aimed at making the ‘Stock’ category more competitive. These regulations are designed to allow greater performance enhancements while keeping vehicles close to their production origins. This change aligns perfectly with Defender’s vision for the D7X-R.
Three Defender Dakar D7X-R vehicles will compete in the Stock class at the Dakar Rally, while two additional cars will take part in the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC).
The Road Ahead
The Defender Rally Team is currently undergoing an intensive development programme, with vehicle assembly already underway at JLR’s Nitra production plant. A full team and car launch is scheduled for later this year as the countdown to Dakar 2026 continues.
With a legendary name, a purpose-built vehicle, and two world-class drivers, Defender’s journey into rally-raid is just beginning—and all eyes are on the dunes of Dakar.
