The 2026 MasterDrive Driver Search concluded its entry phase with a milestone result — for the first time in the competition’s four-year history there are two finalists. Both winners, from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, represent a meaningful step forward in transforming motorsport in South Africa
The winners are Umar Dhansay (20) and Suhaa Jacobs (16). The two emerged victorious from a field of over 100 aspiring young drivers who battled it out across a network of venues. Competitors participated on a simulated track of the Simola Hillclimb at TGN Race Centres or at IndyKart Indoor Go-Karting and Century Karting centres.
MasterDrive Coastal GM Eugene ‘Gino’ Nourse says since its launch in 2023, the MasterDrive Driver Search positioned itself as a catalyst for identifying raw talent among South African youth who have passion and ability but lack the financial means or traditional connections to break into motorsport. This year’s outcome is another step toward changing this legacy by featuring the first female entrant.
“Both Dhansay and Jacobs will now receive comprehensive preparation for the 16th Simola Hillclimb, scheduled in Knysna. This includes theoretical instruction, practical on-track sessions by RDSA and MasterDrive, training via sim racing, karting and mentorship from previous Driver Search winners, everything needed to prepare for the iconic 1.9km circuit,” says Nourse.
The event draws elite drivers from across South Africa and internationally. The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says: “Like most motorsport events, the Hillclimb was historically the preserve of a select few. The MasterDrive Driver Search has changed that. It gives young drivers who do not have conventional access a unique chance to compete on a prestigious motorsport stage.
“Motorsport was long held back by barriers of cost, geography and connection, keeping generations of talented young drivers on the sidelines. By creating a structured and accessible competition, MasterDrive Driver Search is actively building a more representative future. Each entrant at the start line sends a clear message that the next generation is ready to take their place,” says Herbert.
The 2026 competition is the biggest to date, supported by multiple partners including Castrol, the ROSE Foundation, RDSA, Motorsport South Africa, TGN Racing Simulators, Century Karting, IndyKart Indoor GoKarting, Tracktion Driving Experiences, and Killarney International Raceway, alongside AA South Africa, who came on board this year for the first time.
For Dhansay and Jacobs, the announcement is just the beginning. Training, development, and preparation now take centre stage as MasterDrive shapes two young South Africans into competitors ready for the Simola spotlight along with the rest of the team. The real work starts now.
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