Road Closures You Need to Know Before the Next Race

If you love watching motorsport live, you’ve probably run into traffic jams caused by road closures. They happen whenever a track needs extra space for spectators, safety barriers or emergency routes. Knowing the schedule and the detour options can save you hours of frustration, especially on busy race weekends.

Why Road Closures Happen During Races

Racing series like Formula 1, MotoGP or the British Superbike Championship often close nearby streets to protect fans and drivers. The closures let marshals set up barriers, create parking zones and keep emergency vehicles clear. Local councils also use the time to do road maintenance that would be impossible with normal traffic.

Because each event is different, the length and location of the closures vary. A small club race might only affect a couple of side streets, while a major Grand Prix can shut down major arteries for several days.

How to Stay Ahead of the Closures

The easiest way to stay informed is to follow the official event website or its social media channels. They usually post detailed maps and timing updates a week before the weekend. Local council websites also list roadworks and closures on a public calendar.

Smartphone navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze now incorporate live road closure data. Turn on the "incidents" layer, and the app will reroute you automatically. Some fans even join local Facebook groups that share real‑time tips from people on the ground.

Another practical tip: plan your arrival early. Traffic builds up quickly, especially around popular corners of the circuit. If you can get there a few hours before the session starts, you’ll have more parking choices and less stress.

Typical Detour Routes for Popular UK Circuits

Silverstone – The A43 and A34 are often partially closed. Drivers can use the A43 northbound to connect to the A5, which runs parallel and stays open.

Goodwood – The A285 is closed during the Festival of Speed. The A27 offers a reliable alternative, with clear signage posted on race days.

Brands Hatch – The B2078 sees heavy restrictions. Take the A229 to the south, then follow the B2065 to bypass the circuit.

These examples aren’t exhaustive, but they illustrate the kind of simple reroutes you can memorize or save in your phone before you set off.

Extra Tips for a Smooth Race Day

• Check the weather forecast – rain can make detours slower and road conditions slick.
• Stock up on food and drink before you reach the circuit. On‑site vendors are great but the lines get long when traffic is stuck.
• Consider public transport. Trains to nearby stations like Northampton (Silverstone) or Eastbourne (Goodwood) often run extra services on race weekends.
• Share your ETA with friends or family. If you get stuck, they’ll know you’re okay and can help coordinate a backup plan.

Road closures are a part of the racing experience, but they don’t have to ruin your day. By keeping an eye on official updates, using navigation tools and planning a few hours ahead, you can enjoy the roar of the engines without the headache of stuck traffic.

Keep checking this page for the latest closure notices, maps and insider tips. Happy racing!