Knysna, South Africa, 28 April 2025 – In an exciting move that adds an international touch to the country’s premier motoring and motorsport lifestyle event, bp Southern Africa has announced its four-year sponsorship commitment to the Simola Hillclimb. This partnership will see bp, a globally recognized fuel brand with deep roots in South African motorsport, supporting the hillclimb through to the 2028 event.
Scheduled to take place from 1 to 4 May 2025, the 15th edition of the Simola Hillclimb promises to be the most spectacular yet. With an impressive line-up of both local and international drivers, participants and fans will be treated to intense competition in the renowned Classic Car Friday and the exhilarating King of the Hill challenge. The picturesque town of Knysna, located on the Garden Route, will again serve as the perfect backdrop for this iconic event.
“We are delighted to welcome bp Southern Africa as one of our esteemed sponsors for this milestone 15th edition of the Simola Hillclimb,” says Ian Shrosbree, Managing Director of Knysna Speed Festival, the event’s organizing body. “bp’s commitment to this event speaks volumes. Their legacy in international motorsport, particularly in association with world-class racing teams and series, aligns perfectly with the Simola Hillclimb’s vision. By joining us as a sponsor through to the 2028 event, bp has demonstrated their confidence in the future of the hillclimb and their dedication to supporting its continued growth and success.”
bp Southern Africa’s support comes at a time when the Simola Hillclimb has solidified its position as one of the top hillclimb events in the world. The collaboration underscores bp’s long-standing relationship with motorsport, highlighting its innovative products and premium fuels. According to Nokwanda Khumalo, General Manager, Mobility & Convenience at bp Southern Africa, the partnership is an exciting opportunity to showcase the performance of their fuel range.
“We are honoured to bring bp Ultimate with ACTIVE Technology to the Simola Hillclimb – a stage where the performance of engines is pushed to the limit,” Khumalo says. “bp Ultimate’s advanced formulation with dirt-busting ACTIVE Technology is designed to maximize engine performance, helping cars perform at their peak under demanding conditions. The Simola Hillclimb provides the perfect setting to highlight how our premium fuels power high-performance vehicles.”
The Simola Hillclimb’s reputation as a thrilling spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts continues to grow, with last year’s record attendance surpassing 19,000 spectators. The event’s global reach is further amplified by its livestream, which saw nearly 423,000 views from 85 countries in the previous edition. As online engagement continues to rise, the Simola Hillclimb has become a global motorsport fixture, offering sponsors a unique platform to connect with a passionate audience. The livestream for the 2025 event, covering three days of intense competition, will be freely available on the event’s website, reaching a global audience once again.
The Simola Hillclimb’s 15th edition is not just a celebration of speed and performance; it is also a testament to the growing appeal of motorsport in South Africa and its ability to attract top-tier international partners. With bp Southern Africa’s support, the event is poised for an even brighter future, further cementing its place as a highlight on the global motorsport calendar.
For more information on the 2025 Simola Hillclimb and to purchase tickets, visit the official website: www.simolahillclimb.com.
About bp Southern Africa
bp Southern Africa is a leading energy company committed to advancing clean energy solutions and driving sustainable growth in the region. Through its innovative products and services, bp continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of energy and supporting the motorsport community in South Africa.
About the Simola Hillclimb
The Simola Hillclimb is an annual motorsport event held in the picturesque town of Knysna, located on South Africa’s Garden Route. Recognized as the country’s premier hillclimb, the event draws top-tier drivers and automotive enthusiasts from around the world to compete in one of the most exhilarating motorsport challenges. With a history of world-class competition and record-breaking performances, the Simola Hillclimb has become a significant fixture in both South African and international motorsport.
