MINI USA has announced that it will make its first-ever appearance at the Rebelle Rally in 2026, using the all-women off-road navigation event to debut a new adventure-oriented model variant. The rally marks a new chapter in MINI’s motorsport journey and continues BMW Group’s long-running participation in the competition.
The new model, which will be revealed globally later this year, has been developed as a more rugged interpretation of the MINI lineup, aimed at customers looking for greater off-road capability.
Rebelle Rally debut
Held annually across the deserts of Nevada, California and, for the first time, Utah, the Rebelle Rally is the longest competitive off-road navigation rally in the United States.
Unlike conventional rallies, competitors rely solely on paper maps, a compass and road books to complete the 1,500-mile route, with GPS navigation prohibited.
MINI says the event provides an ideal platform to demonstrate the durability and capability of its upcoming adventure-focused model.
All-women crew
MINI’s inaugural Rebelle Rally entry will be piloted by an experienced all-women team.
Felicia Killman, an active American Rally Association competitor and long-time MINI enthusiast, will drive the vehicle. She has previously campaigned a specially prepared MINI in stage rally events.
Joining her as navigator is Erika Ferrer, a member of BMW Group Mexico’s Corporate Communications team and a three-time regional rally co-driver champion. Ferrer has also competed alongside renowned Mexican rally driver Benito Guerra.
New model to debut
While MINI has yet to reveal technical specifications, it says the new model will offer a more adventure-oriented take on the brand’s existing lineup.
More details are expected to be announced later this year during its global reveal.
BMW Group’s rally involvement
MINI’s entry continues BMW Group’s growing presence at the Rebelle Rally.
Previous entries have included:
- Rolls-Royce Cullinan (2019)
- BMW X2 (2023)
- BMW X3 (2024)
- BMW X5 (2025)
The BMW X5 finished second overall in the X-Cross class at the 2025 event while also winning the Bone Stock Award with minimal modifications.
Final Take
MINI’s Rebelle Rally debut reflects the brand’s continued focus on adventure and its rich motorsport heritage. By choosing one of the world’s most demanding women’s off-road events to unveil its new model variant, MINI is reinforcing its rally credentials while previewing a more rugged direction for its future lineup.
