Knysna – Pieter Joubert, a veteran of the South African motorsport fraternity died on Sunday morning in an accident at the 15th running of the Simola Hillclimb when his Mercedes-AMG V8 powered Lotus Exige veered off the course.
It appears that a component of Joubert’s car had broken and he lost control in excess of 210 km/h on the bumpy straight heading up to Turn 3 during his first run up the hill on day two of the King of the Hill shootout.
Despite the swift action of the event’s on-site medical, fire and emergency services, Joubert was pronounced deceased on the scene. The organisers followed the required protocols and the event was halted while the scene was attended to.
“We are exceptionally saddened by this incident, and our thoughts and condolences are with Pieter’s family, team and friends,” said Ian Shrosbree, managing director of Knysna Speed Festival.
Joubert’s brothers Dawie and Charl, who also competed at the Knysna Hillclimb in their own Lotus sportscars, expressed their wishes that the event continues in their brother’s honour. Racing recommenced at 13:00, with a revised programme.
The CAR team extends their condolences to the Joubert family.
