Johannesburg -The Gauteng Provincial Government is mourning the passing of famous racing driver Robert Wolk, who was fatally shot in a road rage incident.
The 41-year-old motorsport star was killed in Kempton Park on Wednesday, 16 September 2026.
“Our province mourns alongside the Wolk family during this devastating time,” said Gauteng Premier Lesufi on Sunday, 20 September 2026
Wolk was one of South Africa’s most accomplished motorsport competitors, with a career spanning nearly three decades.
He was the SA Formula Volkswagen champion in 2013, the Formula 1600 champion in 2015, back-to-back SA GTC champion in 2021 and 2022, and SA Touring Cars champion in 2024.
Earlier this year, he claimed his second Simola Hillclimb “King of the Hill” title.
He represented South Africa with distinction, holding both Junior and Senior Protea Colours for motorsport.
“The tragic and violent death of Robert Wolk, a true ambassador for South African motorsport, has deeply shocked our province,” lamented Premier Lesufi.
“Road rage and senseless violence have no place in our society.”
Police have since confirmed the arrest of three suspects in connection with the shooting.
“We are grateful for the swift and decisive response of the South African Police Service in arresting suspects linked to this tragedy, and we trust that the full force of the law will ensure justice is served,” the Gauteng Premier said.
Wolk’s murder has rocked the Motorsport community.
In a statement, Motorsport South Africa said it was “deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Robert Wolk”.
The statement added: “Our thoughts are with Robert’s family, friends, teams and the many people across South Africa.”
Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie said he learnt with “shock and sadness” of Wolk’s untimely death.
“Robert Wolk was a champion in every sense of the word: a driver who competed at the highest level for South Africa across multiple disciplines in motorsport,” the minister said.
“That his life was cut short in an act of senseless violence, on our roads, is a tragedy that should trouble every South African.
“Our sportspeople should be able to travel our roads in safety, as should everyone else.”
Minister McKenzie has conveyed his condolences to Wolk’s family, friends and the broader motorsport community.
