KNYSNA, South Africa – BMW Group South Africa will be competing in its fifth Simola Hillclimb this year, and has signed up as a Tier 2 Manufacturer for the 2026 edition, which takes place in Knysna from 30 April to 3 May. Notably, it is bringing one of its BMW M division’s star international racing drivers to contest King of the Hill in the Road Car and Supercar category, further raising the calibre of the driver line-up that fans can look forward to seeing in action.
“BMW Group South Africa is proud to be presenting models from its BMW, MINI and BMW Motorrad brands at the 16th running of the Simola Hillclimb this year,” says Thilosh Moodally, Director: Government Affairs and Communication, BMW Group South Africa. “As South Africa’s premier motorsport lifestyle event, Simola Hillclimb allows us to showcase our vehicles in an environment that celebrates engineering excellence and South Africa’s unique motorsport culture.”
BMW has been a fierce competitor in King of the Hill, with both of its entries last year making it to the Top 10 Shootout in the standard production vehicle category. BMW’s Cristiano Verolini finished an impressive second overall in the M4 Competition, while racing driver Leyton Fourie was fourth in the M2.
Both cars and drivers will be back in action this year, but the illustrious brand will have another ace up its sleeve. One of the most experienced BMW M works drivers, Jens Klingmann, takes a break from his duties in endurance racing and development programmes for iconic BMW road cars to take on the Simola Hillclimb. The German GT ace will be behind the wheel of the new hybrid-powered M5 as it takes on the 1.9 km Simola Hill course for the first time.
The MINI brand also makes a return with the latest version of the John Cooper Works (JCW) after securing second in its class last year. Additionally, two BMW S 1000 RR superbikes will delight lunchtime crowds with demonstration runs on the course on Saturday and Sunday.
“It is fantastic to welcome BMW Group South Africa back as a Tier 2 Manufacturer for the 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb,” says Ian Shrosbree, MD of the Knysna Speed Festival, which owns and runs the Simola Hillclimb. “Having entered four cars, and committed to bringing Jens Klingmann to compete at the event, this reinforces the Simola Hillclimb’s premier status on the motoring and motorsport calendar, and will generate further interest amongst our local and international audience.”
The 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026.
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