The South African motorsport community is mourning the tragic loss of seasoned competitor Pieter Joubert, who died in a crash during the Simola Hillclimb on Sunday morning, May 4, 2025. Joubert was performing his first qualifying run of the day in his modified Lotus Exige when he lost control of the vehicle on the fast uphill straight and veered off the course, crashing into trees. Witnesses reported that a mechanical failure seemed to have caused the accident.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene, but sadly, Joubert was pronounced dead at the scene. This incident marks a somber moment in the history of the Simola Hillclimb, which is currently in its 15th year; it is the first time a competitor has lost their life while participating in the event.
In the wake of this tragedy, the Knysna Speed Festival, the event's organizers, confirmed that the Hillclimb King of the Hill event would resume at 1 PM on the same day, following the wishes of Joubert’s family, who insisted that the show must go on in his honor. "We are exceptionally saddened by this incident, and our thoughts and condolences are with Pieter’s family, team, and friends," said Ian Shrosbree, the managing director of the Knysna Speed Festival. "Pieter’s brothers, Dawie and Charl, who have also been competing, have expressed their wishes that we continue with the event."
Joubert was a respected figure in the motorsport community, known not only for his skill and passion behind the wheel but also for his humility and generosity off the track. In the previous day's qualifying session, Joubert had showcased his talent by finishing fastest in class B7 and 13th overall in his #30 Lotus sports car.
As news of the accident spread, the motorsport community came together to honor Joubert's memory. A minute of silence was observed by the organizers, spectators, and fellow racers earlier on Sunday. Martina Biene, chairperson and managing director of Volkswagen Group Africa, expressed her condolences, stating, "This is a very sad day for the motorsport community and the Simola Hillclimb. My heartfelt condolences go to the Joubert family and the entire motorsport community. As per the wish of the family, we as Volkswagen have decided to continue racing in honor of the Joubert family. But it is still upon the individual decisions of our Volkswagen drivers whether they want to continue to participate in the race or not. We race in honor of the Joubert family."
Tributes have been pouring in from across the racing community, highlighting Joubert's character and impact on the sport. Chris de Weerdt, a fellow racer, shared his thoughts on social media, stating, "In the world of motorsport, where egos can often run as fast as the machines, Pieter Joubert stood out. Not just for his skill behind the wheel, but for his humility, passion, and unwavering sportsmanship. A true racing enthusiast, Pieter was more than just a competitor. He was a cornerstone of the South African racing scene and an inspiration to those who knew him."
De Weerdt continued, reflecting on Joubert's approach to racing: "From the moment he first stepped onto the track, Pieter displayed a natural talent and an unrelenting drive to push limits. Whether he was tearing down the straight or fine-tuning his car late into the night, racing wasn’t just a sport to him. Those who raced with him knew they were up against someone who combined fierce competitiveness with deep respect for the game."
Michael Ludick, another member of the motorsport community, conveyed his sorrow with a simple but heartfelt message: "My hart is stukkend. [My heart is broken.]" This sentiment captures the grief shared by many who knew Joubert or admired his contributions to the sport.
As the event continues, the legacy of Pieter Joubert will undoubtedly linger in the hearts of his fellow competitors and fans alike. His dedication to racing and his character have left an indelible mark on the South African motorsport scene. The Simola Hillclimb will proceed, not only as a tribute to his memory but also as a celebration of the passion he brought to the sport. The racing community will remember Joubert not just for his achievements on the track but for the kindness and respect he exhibited off it. In a sport driven by adrenaline and rivalry, Joubert brought heart and a reminder that greatness is measured not just in speed, but in how one carries themselves both on and off the track.
The ongoing event stands as a testament to the spirit of racing, where competitors honor their fallen peers by continuing to strive for excellence and camaraderie. As the sun sets on this tragic day, the memory of Pieter Joubert will continue to inspire racers and fans alike, ensuring that his legacy lives on in the fast-paced world of motorsport.
