Drivers brace for traffic chaos as multiple roads in major city closed this weekend for popular race

MOTORISTS are bracing for traffic chaos as several roads in a major city are closed for a popular race this weekend.

The London Triathlon is bringing much of the capital to a standstill today and tomorrow.

Athletes start and finish the race at the ExCel Centre in East London Docklands.

But their route runs right through the centre of London, all the way to the Houses of Parliament in Westminster and back again.

The triathlon consists of races for top athletes today and tomorrow, a 100 km race and a series of relay races.

Today, seven major roads in the east London boroughs of Newham and Tower Hamlets will be closed from 12pm to 7pm.

All seven roads, except the roundabout at Leamouth, will also be closed from 4.30am to 6.30pm tomorrow.

As many as 17 major roads in Westminster and the City of London will also be closed tomorrow from 4.30am to 2pm.

The Sunday triathlon route takes in London’s landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral, Horse Guards Parade and Big Ben.

In a letter to Londoners, the event organisers wrote: “The London Triathlon returns in July but with a few changes!

The Professional Triathletes Organisation is partnering with London Marathon Events to deliver the event in the capital.

“The new name of the event is the London T100 Triathlon – and it is the fourth leg of the new eight-stage T100 Triathlon World Tour.

“As in previous years, the event will start and finish at ExCel London and will consist of various triathlon distances.

“The London T100 will also feature a number of exciting new elements in 2024.

“These include a top-level athlete competition on both days, a new 100km option and several team relay events.

This means that there will be road closures in your area on Saturday 27 and/or Sunday 28 July.

“We are working closely with local authorities and Transport for London to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum.

“Thank you in advance for your understanding and we apologize for any inconvenience the event weekend may cause.

“We hope you can come and experience what the London T100 has to offer!”