The Jeep brand is heading back into the grueling expanse of the Rebelle Rally for its 11th consecutive year, locking in its role as a Silver Partner for the upcoming 2026 competition. Running from Oct. 7–17, the all-women’s off-road navigation event will test teams across 1,500 miles of punishing terrain using strictly traditional tools—maps and compasses—with zero access to GPS or cell phones.
For the 2026 edition, the spotlight turns directly to Team 129, featuring Nena Barlow alongside first-time competitor “Hurricane” Hannah Felton. The duo will tackle the eight-day challenge behind the wheel of a stock, Desert Rated Jeep Gladiator Mojave, showcasing authentic off-road capability in a factory-spec vehicle.
“The Rebelle Rally is an authentic proving ground for our vehicles and the people behind the wheel,” said Branden Coté, Jeep brand CEO, highlighting the decade-plus partnership and the real-world conditions that push both driver and machine to their absolute limits.
Team 129: Experience Meets Hands-On Craftsmanship
Bringing a wealth of competitive knowledge to the starting line, Nena Barlow returns for her 10th Rebelle Rally appearance. Based in Arizona, Barlow operates Barlow Adventures, where she provides specialized four-wheel-drive instruction and guided off-road excursions throughout the Southwest.
Sharing the cabin is newcomer Hannah Felton, whose background as an avid off-roader, welder, and fabricator brings vital technical expertise to Team 129. Felton’s hands-on experience spans building vehicles to navigating them through demanding outdoor environments.
“We are incredibly grateful for the Jeep brand’s unwavering support of the Rebelle Rally,” Barlow said regarding the upcoming partnership. “After several successful years with my previous teammate, I’m excited for a new challenge alongside Hannah. Her passion, skill and hands-on approach make her a great partner, and I’m looking forward to sharing what I’ve learned while taking on this year’s competition together.”
The Desert Rated Jeep Gladiator Mojave
Jeep 4×4 vehicles have maintained an enduring footprint in the rally since its inception, securing eight overall wins and five Bone Stock awards. That legacy dates back to 2016, when Charlene Bower and Kaleigh Hotchkiss captured the inaugural crown in a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon.
For this year’s 1,500-mile test, Team 129 relies on the Jeep Gladiator Mojave—a two-time Rebelle Rally winner and the singular vehicle in the Jeep lineup to wear the Desert Rated badge. Engineered specifically for high-speed sand, dunes, and brutal desert trails, the stock pickup combines a reinforced frame, strengthened axles, cast-iron steering knuckles, and a performance-tuned suspension featuring a 1-inch lift. Additional mechanical enhancements include FOX hydraulic jounce bumpers, FOX internal bypass remote reservoir shocks, and a high-speed rear locking axle.
Beyond factory-backed entries, the Rebelle Rally continues to draw heavy participation from private owners, with nearly one-third of competing private teams driving their own daily-driven Jeep vehicles. To honor that grassroots dedication, Mopar announced it will award top-finishing privateer Jeep teams through FlexCare Vehicle Protection and Jeep Performance Parts, with further details expected closer to the October launch.
As the countdown to October 7 continues, teams are finalizing their navigation strategies and vehicle checks. Share your thoughts on Team 129’s chances in the comments below, and pass this story along to fellow off-road enthusiasts.
