Knysna, South Africa, 5 September 2025 – The Simola Hillclimb has once again solidified its position as South Africa’s premier motoring and motorsport lifestyle event. The 15th edition, held earlier this year, attracted a record-breaking 20 244 spectators over three thrilling days, which included Classic Car Friday and the two-day King of the Hill. This milestone reinforced the Hillclimb’s reputation as the must-attend event for automotive enthusiasts across the country and abroad.
Recognition for its contribution to both motorsport and the Knysna region came in the form of the 2025 Best Event Organiser award in the Best of Knysna & Plett Reader’s Choice Awards.
“Winning this award isn’t just a moment of pride; it’s a recognition of the relentless pursuit of perfection that happens long before the start flag waves,” says Ian Shrosbree, Managing Director of Knysna Speed Festival, organisers of the event. “From logistics to hospitality, safety to spectacle, the team behind ‘The World’s Fastest Hillclimb’ delivers excellence every step of the way. This award acknowledges the tireless efforts behind the scenes that make this world-class event possible.”
A New Era for the Sporting Side
With the retirement of Geoff Goddard, who served as Sporting Director across all 15 editions, the reins have passed to Leon Smith. Smith, a Knysna resident for nearly 14 years and lifelong motorsport enthusiast, brings both experience and passion to the role.
“I have been involved with the Simola Hillclimb for five years, assisting Geoff with everything from pit preparation to competitor liaison,” Smith explains. “Geoff’s expertise is irreplaceable, but it has been an honour to learn from him and now continue building on his legacy.”
Expanded Eligibility for Classic Car Friday
The 16th edition, scheduled for 30 April to 3 May 2026, promises exciting changes to Classic Car Friday on 1 May. The organisers have expanded the eligibility range for several classes, ensuring a broader spectrum of entrants and some legendary additions.
“By increasing the eligible years of manufacture for multiple classes, we are opening the door to more historic racing saloons, including the iconic Group N production cars that captivated fans in their heyday,” says Smith. “These cars remain in collections nationwide, and we are eager to see them back on the Simola Hill course.”
Other key updates include:
- Classes H9 (open-wheel single-seaters) and H10 (racing sports cars and GTs) now allow vehicles up to the end of 1990.
- Class H2 for road-going cars with full interior trim also extends eligibility to 1975 models.
- Road-going cars in H3 and H4 now include vehicles up to 1990, while vintage pre-war cars in H10 will welcome modified saloon racers under a handicap format to ensure fair competition.
King of the Hill regulations will also adapt to reflect contemporary engine trends, accommodating up to four-cylinder configurations, including the rising prevalence of three-cylinder engines, across relevant classes.
Safety Remains Paramount
Safety continues to be the Hillclimb’s top priority. In collaboration with Motorsport South Africa, the organisers have implemented significant upgrades to the track.
“For this year, we enhanced safety measures with 1 260 new tyres, 2 600 special screws and nuts, and over a kilometre of stainless steel strapping to upgrade our tyre barriers to FIA specification,” Smith confirms.
Looking Ahead
Entries for the 16th Simola Hillclimb open on 1 October 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. Spectators can expect a refined, expanded experience with an even more diverse lineup of vehicles, world-class racing, and the same unwavering focus on safety and spectacle.
The event will once again take place in Knysna from 30 April to 3 May 2026. For more information and invitation applications, visit: www.simolahillclimb.com
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