News24 | Heartbreak in Knysna as racing driver dies at 15th Simola Hillclimb

Pieter Joubert in his Lotus Exige at the start of the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna on Friday, 2 May 2025. (FrankysFunkyFotos)

What was meant to be one of the most exciting events of the year on the South African motorsport calendar has ended in heartbreak as racing driver Pieter Joubert died at the 15th Simola Hillclimb in Knysna on Sunday morning.

"Knysna Speed Festival, the organisers of the Simola Hillclimb, have confirmed seasoned competitor Pieter Joubert sadly passed away in an accident today," the organisers said.

"Joubert was out on his first run on day two of King of the Hill when he lost control of his Lotus on the fast uphill straight and veered off the course after it appeared that something broke on the car.

"The scene was immediately attended to by the event's on-site medical, fire and emergency crews, but sadly, Joubert was pronounced deceased on the scene. Authorities are following all of the required protocols for an incident of this nature."

His family, in attendance at the event, are being supported by the organisers.

Pieter was driving the #40 2006 Lotus Exige with a 6.2-litre naturally-aspirated V8 Mercedes-AMG engine under the bonnet.

While some racing drivers and spectators have packed up early after the tragic incident, the event will continue later on Sunday afternoon at the request of the Joubert family.

Pieter, along with his two brothers, Dawie and Charl Joubert, has been a regular competitor at the annual motorsport event, which sees thousands of South Africans make their way to the picturesque town of Knysna for the three-day event.

This is the first fatal accident during the event's 15-year history. 

According to the event spokesperson, the Joubert family expressed their wishes that the event continues in honour of Pieter.

Some of the competitors have elected to withdraw, and all the demo runs have been cancelled.

A shortened programme is likely to resume on Sunday afternoon.