Police in Gauteng are investigating an alleged road rage incident in Kempton Park that left celebrated South African racing driver Robert Wolk dead.
The incident, which reportedly happened after a minor car crash, led to the 41-year-old Wolk being shot during an argument.
Gauteng police spokesperson Dikamatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that the victim was shot dead on Wednesday and that no suspect had been arrested yet.
Sebenza police responded to the shooting and found Wolk and a vehicle believed to be his at the scene.
The police spokesperson confirmed that a case of murder has been opened and that the motive for the shooting was subject to investigation.
Earlier this year, Wolk excelled at the Simola Hillclimb in Knysna, securing his second King of the Hill title following his performances in the Single Seater, Sports Car and Sports Prototypes classes.
His best run of the weekend in the all-or-nothing Top 10 Shootout was 35.024 seconds. He recorded an average speed of 195.295 km/h.
At the time of his death, Wolk was gearing up to race at Killarney this weekend.
Motorsport South Africa pays its respects
In a tribute to the seasoned driver, whose career spanned nearly three decades, Motorsport South Africa said it is deeply saddened by his tragic passing.
“Robert was a hugely respected figure in South African motorsport, with a career spanning almost three decades and success across karting, single-seaters, touring cars and other forms of circuit racing,” Motorsport said.
His extensive list of achievements includes South African Junior Grand Prix Karting Championship titles in 1995 and 1997, multiple Formula Ford championships, the 2013 SA Formula Volkswagen Championship, the 2015 SA Formula 1600 Championship, the 2021 and 2022 SA GTC Championships and the 2024 SA Touring Cars Championship.
According to Motorsport South Africa, Wolk was awarded South African Junior Protea Colours in 1998 and later received his Senior Protea Colours in 2022.
“Robert continued to add to that remarkable career in 2026. In May, he won his second Simola Hillclimb King of the Hill title, and in June he returned to South African Touring Cars with a victory at Aldo Scribante,” it added.
“Robert’s passion for racing remained clear right to the end. He was still competing at national level and was due to race at Killarney this weekend.”
Motorsport South Africa said his passing leaves a profound void in South African motorsport.
“Robert will be remembered not only for the championships and victories he achieved, but for the passion, commitment and sportsmanship he brought to the sport throughout his career.”
“Our thoughts are with Robert’s family, friends, team members, colleagues and everyone across the motorsport community who knew him. Rest in peace, Robert Wolk.”
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