An exclusive Defender 110 takes centre stage in a nationwide trophy tour ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, amplifying visibility for the tournament and celebrating the spirit of women’s rugby.
Pretoria, South Africa – 14 May 2025: With just 100 days to go until kick-off, Defender has revealed a bespoke Defender 110 as the Official Trophy Vehicle of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. The custom-built SUV made its striking debut today at Battersea Power Station in London, where it delivered the newly designed tournament trophy for public display — the first stop on a spirited tour of all eight host cities across England.
The tour, which culminates in Sunderland on 6 June, is a bold statement of intent from both Defender and World Rugby: to elevate the visibility and excitement of the women’s game and inspire new generations of fans.
Crafted by Defender’s team in Coventry, the one-off 4×4 is not only a celebration of design and engineering prowess but also a moving tribute to the resilience and unity embodied by the sport. The vehicle showcases an elegant two-tone matte and gloss black finish, highlighted by refined gold detailing on the alloy wheels, grille, and iconic Defender script on the bonnet. Extended rear glazing and bespoke interior lighting ensure that the Women’s Rugby World Cup trophy remains prominently visible throughout its journey — from the streets of London to the historic cathedrals of York.
Powered by a plug-in electric hybrid drivetrain, the vehicle underscores Defender’s commitment to sustainability while championing the durability and performance that has made the marque synonymous with go-anywhere capability.
“We are very proud to demonstrate our support of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 with this custom-built Defender 110,” said Mark Cameron, Managing Director of Defender. “Our vehicles have always stood for capability and durability; and creating an individual commission for the trophy was a mission we were very pleased to undertake. With anticipation building over the coming weeks as our unique Defender transports the trophy across the nation, keep an eye out for the very special trophy and the very special Defender that will be carrying it.”
As a Principal Partner of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, Defender is deepening its longstanding relationship with the sport. After supporting Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, the brand continues its alignment with rugby values through initiatives like Defender Trailblazers, a programme launched in 2023 to honour individuals whose perseverance and spirit mirror those seen on the pitch.
Sarah Massey, Managing Director of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, added: “Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 promises to be an unforgettable tournament for the sport, which is only enhanced by the Defender partnership and our shared value of driving the visibility and awareness of the tournament. The bespoke Defender 110 acts as the perfect vehicle for the newly created trophy, and its appearances across the UK will ignite excitement and intrigue for new and existing fans.”
The Trophy Tour promises a unique blend of heritage and high-performance. Beyond London, the Defender 110 will traverse the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol, visit historic sites in York and Northampton, and even make a stop at Silverstone during the British MotoGP, creating crossover appeal among sports enthusiasts of all stripes.
Trophy Tour Itinerary
14–16 May: London
17–19 May: Brighton and Hove
20–22 May: Exeter
23–24 May: Bristol
26–27 May: Northampton
29–31 May: Manchester
1–3 June: York
4–6 June: Sunderland
The tournament begins on 22 August 2025, with hosts England taking on the USA at the Stadium of Light in Sunderland. As anticipation builds, the Defender 110 will not only transport the trophy but also carry the hopes, dreams and pride of a sport – and a nation – ready to make history.
