MINI reaffirmed its commitment to community engagement during the 2026 ‘Mile of MINI’ annual charity road rally, this year in support of the STOP.BREATHE.THINK charity. On 26 April, a colourful procession of MINIs representing a diverse array of eras, colours, and models made the journey from MINI Plant Oxford—the historic home of the marque—to MINI UK headquarters in Farnborough.
STOP.BREATHE.THINK, selected as the rally’s charity partner for 2026, focuses on supporting children and young people facing mental health challenges. The organisation offers resources, direct assistance, and safe environments for young people to pause, reflect, and seek help during emotional difficulties. Through its partnership with STOP.BREATHE.THINK, MINI aims to increase awareness and generate funds for mental health initiatives, supporting young people across the UK.
The MINI Plant Oxford team once again showcased a selection of standout models from its award-winning on-site exhibition. Among the highlights was the MINI XXL, an extraordinary 6.3-metre-long adaptation of a 2004 MINI Cooper, equipped with six wheels and a rear hot tub. The distinctive Dsquared Red Mudder was also displayed, boasting rugged front bull bars, multiple rally lights, black wheel arches, a roof rack, tinted windows, and a spare tyre mounted on the boot. Its raised chassis and deep-tread, all-terrain tyres further underscored its unique presence.
Also on display was the one millionth MINI produced in the BMW Group era, a landmark vehicle that left the MINI Plant Oxford assembly line in April 2007. The historic MINI Cooper S features a Pepper White body with a custom Almond Green roof and wheels, complemented by a unique bonnet graphic composed of over one million MINI Cooper outlines. The interior echoes the roof’s hue, with Almond Green leather adorning the seats, steering wheel, and gear knob.
Upon arrival at MINI UK headquarters, the convoy formed a striking display as organisers announced that the event had raised more than £9,500 for STOP.BREATHE.THINK. The funds will provide approximately 300 counselling sessions for children and young people experiencing mental health difficulties.
Since 1913, MINI Plant Oxford has operated as one of the world’s oldest continually running automotive manufacturing sites. Today, the facility remains a leader in technological innovation and sustainable car production.
For more information on The Italian Job or STOP.BREATHE.For more on THINK and their work, you can visit italianjob.com or stopbreathethink.org.uk.
