For the first time in the four-year history of the MasterDrive Driver Search, two young South Africans from previously disadvantaged backgrounds will participate in the 16th Simola Hillclimb. Umar Dhansay (20) and Suhaa Jacobs (16) earned their places with talent and determination during the competition. It is the collective power of a remarkable group of partners has made this possible.
Entrance to motorsport, including the Simola Hillclimb, is traditionally difficult for those without financial means or the right connections. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “The MasterDrive Driver Search will continue on this objective to increase entry to the sport.
“Creating an accessible pathway for youth who would otherwise never set foot on a racing circuit takes more than ambition and talented drivers. It depends on investment and a shared commitment to transformation. Since the start of the MasterDrive Driver Search valuable partnerships have paved the way and the same applies to this year’s initiative.”
Castrol is the principal partner of the MasterDrive Driver Search. They bring their world-class motorsport pedigree to the initiative. It is a fitting alliance between a globally recognised brand synonymous with performance and a competition. Their partnership is an illustration of their commitment to unlocking the potential of South Africa’s next generation of racing talent.
The commitment to upliftment of young racing talent is embodied in the partners who have contributed to making the 2026 Driver Search the biggest and most impactful edition yet:
- The Automobile Association of South Africa joined for the first time this year, significantly broadening the initiative’s reach and credibility.
- Century Karting and IndyKart Indoor Go-Karting gave entrants physical venues to submit their entries into the competition.
- Killarney International Raceway provided a racing facility for on-track practice sessions.
- Motorsport South Africa adds to the legitimacy of the initiative that adds to the competition’s weight in the industry.
- MUA Insurance contributed to the financial foundation that makes this initiative possible.
- PG Glass ensured the team has the backing to successfully deliver in competition of this scale.
- Race Driver SA delivered the hands-on training and expertise that will prepare Dhansay and Jacobs for the intensity of the 1.9km Simola circuit.
- The Rose Foundation involvement illustrates that environmental responsibility can sit alongside sporting excellence.
- TGN Racing Simulators opened the Driver Search entry process to aspiring drivers nationwide.
- Tracktion Driving Experiences gave the finalists exposure to real-world, high-speed vehicle dynamics beyond the simulator and kart track.
- Woodford Logistics handled the transport and logistics that make participation in the Hillclimb operationally possible.
- Vertex Performance Auto Clinic are ensuring vehicles are mechanically prepared and performing at their best.
- VW Barons Cape Town brought automotive credibility and vehicle support lending the initiative a prestige that reflects the seriousness of developing young South African driving talent.
Together, these partners have done something meaningful. MasterDrive Coastal GM Eugene ‘Gino’ Nourse, concludes: “They have given a young man and a young woman a shot at competing alongside South Africa’s elite drivers — not as token participants, but as prepared, supported, legitimate competitors.
“Sincere gratitude goes to the organisations who are standing behind the 2026 Driver Search winners, Dhansay and Jacobs. They will drive up to the Simola Hillclimb start line not as hopefuls, but as prepared, supported, and ready competitors,” says Nourse.
