Time to enter is running out for prospective participants in the 16th Simola Hillclimb, which will be held in the Knysna region later this year from 30 April to 3 May.
To enter the event, applications must be submitted on or before 31 January.
The Simola Hillclimb is regarded as South Africa’s premier hill climb and the leading motoring and motorsport lifestyle event.
“We have received an impressive number and calibre of entry applications thus far, and are delighted with the response for both Classic Car Friday and King of the Hill,” says Leon Smith, Simola Hillclimb sporting director. “With the 31 January deadline just more than a week away, we encourage all aspiring competitors to submit their applications as soon as possible.
“Our goal every year is to deliver an exciting line-up of cars and drivers to keep the field competitive and the spectators enthralled,” Leon says. “The level of local and international interest continues to grow each year, and we look forward to raising the bar even higher in 2026.”
The 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026. The opening day on 30 April begins with scrutineering for the Classic Car Friday contenders, followed by the spectacular parade along the Knysna Waterfront, both of which are open to the public with free access.
Classic Car Friday on 1 May allows a total of 65 competitors spread across 10 classes, from the golden oldies of a century ago to many of the legendary cars that ruled the streets and racing circuits over the decades that followed, right up to the early 2000s.
King of the Hill runs over two days on Saturday 2 May and Sunday 3 May. It comprises 84 entries featuring standard road cars, dream-worthy supercars, highly tuned road-legal machines, wild modified saloon racing cars and thoroughbred single-seaters and sports prototypes.
From 1 February 2026, the submitted entries will be reviewed by the Simola Hillclimb organisers. Accepted drivers will receive their invitations to participate by 14 February 2026.
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I have bad reflexes. I was once run over by a car being pushed by two guys
Woody Allen
The South African automotive industry has gained some breathing space following the latest move by the United States Senate to extend the African Growth and Opportunity Act, or AGOA, to the end of 2028.
General Motors (GM) has renewed its joint venture with China's SAIC Motor Corp for another 20 years, enabling the United States (US) automaker to use China as an export hub amid rising competition from Chinese brands in and outside their home market.
Young South African motorists are increasingly opting for more affordable and practical vehicles as the cost of living puts pressure on household budgets, while still maintaining comprehensive insurance cover.
