The defender reveals the contender for the 2026 Dakar Rally

Defender announced the model it should participate within the upcoming Dakar Rally 2026 within the Stock category.

The British manufacturer announced earlier this month that it will compete within the Dakar next yr, even though it was unclear which model it will accomplish that with.

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On Monday, Defender revealed its OCTA model because the vehicle with which it should lay the foundations for its participation within the event, in addition to within the FIA ​​World Rally-Raid Championship.

The vehicle is supplied with a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine and retains the unique architectural design of the D7x body, transmission and drivetrain.

The team will conduct a variety of testing and development programs all year long, with its official unveiling going down later this yr.

“Taking part in the world's most demanding rally event is the ultimate test for our most extreme Defender ever,” said Mark Cameron, Defender managing director.

“We know the Dakar will be a huge challenge, but the Defender OCTA combines tremendous performance with the Defender's signature capability and durability – providing the perfect foundation for what I am sure will be a highly competitive rally vehicle.”

“Taking part in the most demanding rally event in the world is the ultimate test for our most extreme Defender ever,” added James Barclay, managing director of JLR Motorsport and Jaguar Formula E team principal.

“We know the Dakar will be a huge challenge, but the Defender OCTA combines tremendous performance with the Defender's signature capability and durability – providing the perfect foundation for what I am sure will be a highly competitive rally vehicle.”

Land Rover's Defender brand was already the official automotive partner of the Dakar this yr and provided 20 SUVs to the race organizers and VIPs. An extra six modified Recee vehicles might be added to the fleet and can help ASO plan the Dakar route for 2026, 27 and 28.