South African motorsport is mourning the death of celebrated racing driver Robert Wolk, who was shot dead in Kempton Park following an alleged road-rage incident.
The 41-year-old was killed on Wednesday evening, 16 September, at the corner of Gamwood Street and Portland Drive in Esther Park.
A video circulating on social media appears to show a man running followed another man who shoots him from behind. According to information circulating after the incident, Wolk had reportedly been involved in a minor collision and an argument broke out after he allegedly attempted to photograph the vehicles involved.
Wolk was reportedly walking away from the confrontation when he was shot in the back.
Police confirmed that a 41-year-old man was shot dead in the area. Sebenza police responded to the scene and found the victim suffering from gunshot wounds. He was declared dead at the scene.
An Audi believed to belong to the victim was also found at the scene.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said no suspect had been arrested and that a murder case had been opened. The motive for the shooting remains under investigation.
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Wolk was a well-known and highly respected figure in South African motorsport, with a career spanning almost three decades across karting, single-seaters, touring cars and circuit racing. Motorsport South Africa confirmed his death and paid tribute to his contribution to the sport.
Among his achievements were South African Touring Cars titles, the 2013 SA Formula Volkswagen Championship and the 2015 SA Formula 1600 Championship. He also won the Simola Hillclimb King of the Hill title for a second time in May 2026.
Wolk had continued competing at national level this year and was reportedly due to race at Killarney this weekend.
His death has sent shockwaves through the South African motorsport community, with tributes describing him as a respected competitor and a familiar face at major racing events.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain the subject of a police investigation.
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