MINI makes 2026 Rebelle Rally Debut with New Rugged Model Variant.
MINI will debut in the 2026 Rebelle Rally with a new rugged model variant, competing in the 1,500-mile off-road navigation event across Nevada, California, and Utah.
MINI announced its first participation in the Rebelle Rally, the longest competitive off-road navigation rally in the United States, scheduled for 2026. The event spans 1,500 miles across desert terrain in Nevada, California, and Utah, challenging competitors to navigate using maps, compasses, and roadbooks. MINI will field a new model variant designed for rugged off-road conditions, aligning with the rally’s focus on endurance and navigation skills.
The new MINI model variant will feature a more rugged and adventure-oriented design, departing from standard road-focused models. MINI describes it as an expression of the brand’s adventurous spirit, intended for drivers seeking off-pavement exploration. Further details, including specifications and pricing, will be revealed in fall 2026 alongside the vehicle’s global launch. The brand has not disclosed technical specifications or performance metrics at this stage.
MINI’s team for the rally consists of Erika Ferrer as navigator and Felicia Killman as driver. Ferrer, a BMW Group communications professional in Mexico, brings rally co-driving experience, including three regional championships and participation in La Carrera Panamericana. Killman, from Washington state, is an experienced rally competitor who campaigns a modified MINI in stage rallies and advocates for the brand’s community.
The Rebelle Rally marks MINI’s latest motorsport endeavor, building on its historic rally heritage. The original Mini Cooper S won the Monte Carlo Rally in 1964, 1965, and 1967, while recent MINI entries in the Dakar Rally have reinforced its off-road capabilities. This debut in the Rebelle Rally represents a new chapter for MINI, blending its competitive legacy with modern adventure-focused models.