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Defender Completes First Dakar Prototype Test, Confirms Two Drivers For 2026 Campaign
Defender has completed its initial prototype testing in Morocco for its upcoming Dakar Rally and World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) entry, with Stéphane Peterhansel and Rokas Baciuška signed as drivers for the 2026 season.
Keshav Rajput
Updated May 12, 2025, 12:53 PM IST
Defender Completes First Dakar Prototype Test, Confirms Two Drivers for 2026 Campaign
Defender has taken the first step toward its official entry into the 2026 Dakar Rally and the FIA World Rally-Raid Championship (W2RC) by conducting early testing of its new rally-raid prototype. The Defender Dakar D7X-R underwent testing in Morocco’s Sahara Desert, where the team evaluated its performance in desert terrain. The test marks a major milestone ahead of the brand’s return to international off-road motorsport.
Two Drivers Announced for 2026 Dakar Entry
Fourteen-time Dakar Rally winner Stéphane Peterhansel and Lithuanian rally driver Rokas Baciuška have been confirmed as the first two drivers for Defender’s rally team. Both drivers participated in the initial round of tests in Morocco. A third driver and the full list of co-drivers will be announced later.
Defender Dakar D7X-R Prototype
About the Defender Dakar D7X-R Prototype
The Defender Dakar D7X-R is a production-based rally vehicle built on the same aluminium platform used in standard Defender models. It features a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 engine and retains the transmission and driveline layout of the road-going version. The prototype is being developed for the ‘Stock’ category in the FIA W2RC, which focuses on production-spec 4x4s.
New FIA Regulations for 2026 ‘Stock’ Category
Starting with the 2026 season, the FIA and Dakar Rally organisers will implement updated rules for the ‘Stock’ class. These changes aim to balance competition and increase the performance potential of production-based vehicles. Defender’s entry will compete under these new rules.
Defender Dakar D7X-R Prototype
Vehicle Production and Further Testing Underway
Assembly of the rally vehicles has started at JLR’s Nitra production facility. A full testing schedule is in place ahead of a complete team reveal later in 2025. Defender plans to field three vehicles at the 2026 Dakar Rally, followed by participation in the wider W2RC with two entries.
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