Racing legend tragically passes at iconic SA speed festival
General News
5 May 2025

Racing legend tragically passes at iconic SA speed festival

South African motorsport icon Willie Hepburn, known for his V8 prowess, passed away at 82 during the 2024 Killarney Speed Festival.

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

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.

The family, who is in attendance at the event, are being supported by the organisers.

'We are exceptionally saddened by this incident, and our thoughts and condolences are with Pieter's family, team and friends,' says Ian Shrosbree, MD of Knysna Speed Festival. 'Pieter's brothers Dawie and Charl, who have also been competing, have expressed their wishes that we continue with the event.'

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Staff Writer

Reporting from the front lines of the automotive industry, delivering expert analysis and the technical updates that drive the South African motor sector forward.