RIP: Veteran South African Cyclist Dennis Hammar Dies After Attack in Cape Town CBD

• South African cyclist Dennis Hammar passed away after being attacked while riding in the Cape Town CBD
• The veteran cyclist died at the age of 77 after succumbing to the severe injuries he suffered from the assailant's attack
• Netizens were left heartbroken after the announcement of Hammar's death as they shared their condolence messages on social media

The South African cycling community has been thrown into mourning with the confirmation of Dennis Hammar's tragic death at the age of 77 after being attacked while riding in the Cape Town CBD.

The veteran SA cyclist was reportedly riding through the city centre on Sunday, July 27, 2025, when he was attacked by a robber who was trying to steal his mobile phone.

The 77-year-old was struck with a bottle and eventually succumbed to the injuries he suffered from the attack and died in hospital. Hammar was known for his love for cycling and has completed 41 consecutive Cape Town Cycle Tours.

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Tributes pour in as Hammar passes on

Pedal Power Association and Stay Wider of the Rider released an official statement on Facebook to confirm the unfortunate incident and the passing of the veteran cyclist.

"We are saddened to share the following with our cycling community: Our sincerest condolences to his family and friends and @Club 100 fellow riders," the association statement reads. It is with much sadness that we wish to inform you and the greater cycling community of the passing of one of our elder members, Dennis Hammar.

"Dennis was attacked this past Monday morning under the bridge near the convention centre, where a guy jumped him with a bottle and robbed him of his cell phone. Dennis sustained fractures and multiple injuries and had to undergo an operation, and last night succumbed to his injuries due to post-op complications.

"Dennis was 77 years old and very fit and strong and completed 40 cycle tours successfully. Dennis was a husband, father, and grandfather, and we are devastated by this incident, which stems from ongoing attacks on cyclists stemming from the squatter community living on the Prasa land."

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Ward Councillor, Cllr Ian McMahon (Ward 115), also reacted to Hammar's death as he posted a heartfelt message on his Facebook page.

"Very sad about the shocking attack and death of cyclist Dennis Hammar last week. Condolences to his family & friends and the broader cycling community.

"Transnet, the landowner for the stretch along the N1 near the CBD entrance, has shared a status update on their legal plans around the Eviction case for this stretch of land. It encompasses Old Marine Drive near Culemborg to just past the WOMAG interchange to Paarden Eiland, covering 10 different sites and including more than 400 individuals.

"The next hearing is next week, which will hopefully set the main hearing date as DHA is joining the matter. We are hopeful that Transnet is near the end stages in resolving this area, and safety can be restored to this key travel corridor.

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"This sad incident has again rocked the cycling community, so I'm just sharing plans on what actions are being taken by the relevant landowners! Condolences again!"

The news of Hammar's death comes after the confirmation of the passing of Kleinmond RFC player James Jonas and WWE wrestling legend Hulk Hogan.

Mzansi mourns Hammar's death

Van Car said:

"Oooooo ..... How sad. How can someone hurt an elderly person so much?"

Jan Bultinck wrote:

"We live in a third world country where a corrupt government protects the criminal Nothing is going to come of the case."

Annalene Oberholster shared:

"Yes, Cape Town is busy throwing its name away with everyone who allows them to sleep and live everywhere! This is so sad!"

Thea Vermaak reacted:

"Oh no. It is time for the ANC government to fall because the killings are nowhere on their priority list. Their bodyguards that are supposed to protect them could have provided food to millions of people."

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Karen De Klerk commented:

"Oh, so sad, but older people must just think they are loose again and the spirit is targeting the loose again in South Africa, no older person is safe, such a pity."

Ex-Springboks star passes on at young age

Briefly News also reported that an ex-Springboks star passed on at the age of 37.

The Bulls star's passion for the game and his contributions to South African rugby remain deeply respected and fondly remembered.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News