Ernie Pieterse

Ernest 'Ernie' Pieterse (4 July 1938 - 1 November 2017): South African racing driver from Johannesburg who competed in Formula One from 1962 to 1965. Before Formula One, raced saloons and GT cars, finishing third in an Alfa Romeo Giulietta GTI at the 1958 Rand 9 Hours endurance race. Acquired a Lotus 21-Climax for the 1962 season, winning four races to be crowned South African Formula One Champion in the domestic series. Participated in three Formula One World Championship Grands Prix, making his debut on 29 December 1962 at the South African Grand Prix.

Finished runner-up in the 1963 South African National Championship, demonstrating consistent competitiveness in domestic competition. His Lotus was entered by the Lawson Organisation for the 1963 winter series, giving him opportunities to compete against international drivers. Failed to qualify for the South African Grand Prix on 1 January 1965, a disappointing result that came as Pieterse began winding down his racing activities. Scored no championship points during his three World Championship starts.

Retired from competitive motorsport soon after his 1965 qualification failure, transitioning to business ventures. Founded a successful logistics and taxi business in Johannesburg, building a substantial commercial enterprise in post-racing years. Remained interested in motorsport throughout his life, maintaining connections to South African racing circles. Passed away on 1 November 2017 at age 79.

Though his Formula One World Championship career was brief and without points, Pieterse was a respected competitor in South African motorsport during the 1960s, winning the domestic championship and competing creditably against international opposition at his home grand prix.