The Automobile Association (AA) of South Africa has been an integral part of South Africa’s automotive history for almost a century, providing roadside rescue and mobility solutions for motorists countrywide. It has now joined the Simola Hillclimb as a Supporting Partner for the 16th edition of the event, which takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026.
As a true fan of motorsport and a South African member organisation of the FIA (the global motorsport governing body), the AA joins an elite list of partners that continue to build the Simola Hillclimb’s reputation and status as one of the top hillclimb events in the world.
“The AA is proud to be associated with South Africa’s premier motorsport event. We support mobility in every form and have done so for nearly 100 years,” says Minesh Bhagaloo, Head of Public Relations and Advocacy, Automobile Association of South Africa.
The AA is well known for its nationwide fleet of yellow flatbed trucks and technical support vehicles that assist AA members when their vehicles break down, along with emergency medical support and armed standby assistance, if required. As a Supporting Partner of this year’s Simola Hillclimb, the company’s flatbed and support vehicles are on duty, providing competitor vehicle recovery and towing on the 1.9 km Simola Hill course.
The AA is also fielding a race car at the 2026 Simola Hillclimb, with Sean Hepburn piloting a Datsun 1200 Deluxe in AA colours for Classic Car Friday.
Beyond its traditional support services to its members and at the Simola Hill, the AA offers a host of mobility solutions to motorists and corporate clients across South Africa. These services include a fully accredited technical training facility that annually qualifies hundreds of technicians in skills ranging from automotive motor mechanics to electric vehicle specialists.
The AA also offers travel services such as cross-border travel documentation, travel insurance and international driving permits. Members can access a host of other services, including its legal and financial service support, vehicle warranties and finance, while the AA also advocates for its members and all South Africans on issues of national importance, including vehicle and fuel taxes and road maintenance.
At the 16th Simola Hillclimb, the AA is offering one lucky ticket holder a chance to win a trip for two people to the final Formula 1 race of 2026 at the famous Yas Marina racetrack in Abu Dhabi, which takes place from 3 to 6 December 2026.
To stand a chance to win, the Simola Hillclimb tickets must be purchased online at www.simolahilllclimb.com. Then visit aa.co.za and buy an annual membership for you or your family, using the promotional code SHC2026, which will gain automatic entry into the competition. The prize includes two tickets to the race, return flights and accommodation. Entries close on 5 May 2026, and the winner will be announced on 22 May.
“The AA has a proud heritage in South Africa, enhancing mobility and safety for motorists across the country. It also has a strong association with the FIA and local motorsport, so it’s great to welcome the company as a Supporting Partner for the 2026 Simola Hillclimb,” says Ian Shrosbree, Managing Director of the Knysna Speed Festival, which owns and runs the Simola Hillclimb. “The AA recovery and support vehicles will play an essential role in keeping the event running smoothly, while the competition to win tickets to the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 race adds an exciting dimension to the event and an amazing opportunity for our spectators.”
The 16th edition of the Simola Hillclimb takes place from 30 April to 3 May 2026.
