RIP: Motorsport South Africa mourn tragic death of Robert Wolk

Robert Wolk, the 41-year-old touring car driver was killed in an alleged road-rage incident on Wednesday evening, September 16, while traveling to OR Tambo International Airport.

According to South African Police Service spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, the incident occurred at the intersection of Camwood Street and Portland Drive in Esther Park.

Wolk was en route to catch a flight to Cape Town for an upcoming race weekend when an altercation erupted. Emergency services pronounced him dead at the scene beside his Audi.

Wolk was a dominant force on local circuits, renowned for his remarkable skill in the Global Touring Cars (GTC) series and his back-to-back victories at the prestigious Simola Hillclimb in Knysna.

Police have opened a murder investigation, though no arrests have been made as authorities continue searching for suspect details.

Tributes pour in for Robert Wolk

Motorsport South Africa and fans across the country have expressed profound shock and grief, remembering him as a fierce competitor and a beloved ambassador for the sport.

“Motorsport South Africa is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Robert Wolk,” a statement read.

“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.

“His list of achievements is extensive, including SA Junior GP 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.

“He 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.

“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.

“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.”

Shocking incident

Initial reports indicate the conflict began after a minor vehicle collision at the corner of Camwood Street and Portland Drive in Esther Park.

Wolk reportedly pulled over in his Audi, apparently to exchange insurance information and to inspect the damage. An argument is said to have broken out between the drivers, during which Wolk attempted to disengage and leave the scene.

Video footage circulating on social media shows Wolk pleading with the gunman before turning to walk back toward his vehicle, at which point he was shot in the back. The shooter is seen retrieving an item from the ground before fleeing in the vehicle.

SAPS continues to appeal to anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the surrounding movement of vehicles in Esther Park on Wednesday evening to contact local authorities or Crime Stop.