Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has paid tribute to South African race driver Robert Wolk, following the 41-year-old’s death in an alleged road-rage shooting in Kempton Park, Gauteng.
Also see: Robert Wolk identified as driver shot dead in Kempton Park road-rage clash
Gayton McKenzie speaks on Robert Wolk’s death
Robert was shot and killed on Wednesday, 16 September 2026. Gayton said he learned of the motorsport star’s death with “shock and sadness,” describing the circumstances surrounding his death as a tragedy.
In a statement issued on SA News, Gayton said, “Robert Wolk was a champion in every sense of the word: a driver who competed at the highest level for South Africa across multiple disciplines in motorsport. That his life was cut short in an act of senseless violence, on our roads, is a tragedy that should trouble every South African.
“Our sportspeople should be able to travel our roads in safety, as should everyone else.”
He also noted that Robert competed at the highest level for South Africa across several motorsport disciplines.
The minister also condemned the violence that claimed Robert’s life, saying sportspeople and members of the public should be able to travel on South African roads safely.
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Robert Wolk’s motorsport career
Robert had a career spanning nearly three decades and was one of South Africa’s accomplished motorsport competitors.
His achievements included winning the SA Formula Volkswagen championship in 2013 and the Formula 1600 championship in 2015.
He went on to become SA GTC champion in 2021 and 2022, before winning the SA Touring Cars championship in 2024. Earlier in 2026, Robert also claimed his second Simola Hillclimb ‘King of the Hill’ title.
Robert also represented South Africa internationally and was awarded both Junior and Senior Protea Colours for motorsport.
Gayton McKenzie extends condolences
Gayton extended his condolences to Robert’s family, friends and the wider motorsport community following his death.
The minister also expressed his support for the South African Police Service investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Robert’s death has sent shockwaves through the South African motorsport community, with tributes continuing to emerge following the loss of the accomplished driver.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death remains ongoing.
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