The race is on! Road closures announced for the 2026 Amashova National Classic
Marking four decades of legendary rides, this landmark edition will see riders tackle one of three race distances, 106km, 70km or 40km, travelling from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown, and Westown in Shongweni respectively, before all routes converge at the finish line beneath the Masabalala Yengwa Pedestrian Bridge in Durban.
The excitement is mounting as South Africa’s oldest classic cycling race prepares to celebrate a historic milestone.
On Sunday, July 19, 2026, the 40th Amashova National Classic will once again provide safe passage through full road closures for thousands of cyclists participating in this memorable day of racing, camaraderie and celebration.
Marking four decades of legendary rides, this landmark edition will see riders tackle one of three race distances, 106km, 70km or 40km, travelling from Pietermaritzburg, Camperdown, and Westown in Shongweni respectively, before all routes converge at the finish line beneath the Masabalala Yengwa Pedestrian Bridge in Durban.
More than just a race, the Amashova National Classic is a celebration of endurance, heritage and the generations of cyclists who have helped shape one of South Africa’s most iconic sporting events. To ensure the safety of all participants, spectators and road users, a series of temporary road closures will be implemented along the race routes.
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These closures form part of the event’s ongoing commitment to providing a safe, world-class race experience while minimising disruption to local communities.
Confirmed road closures – Sunday, July 19, 2026
For the safety of all participants and the smooth flow of the event, the following roads will be closed to vehicular traffic during the times listed below:
| Route segment | Closure time |
| · Chief Albert Luthuli Street to Alexandra Road | 02h00 – 09h45 |
| · Alexandra Road to Umlaas Road | 02h00 – 11h30 |
| · Camperdown Spar to R103 | 04h30 – 07h00 |
| · Umlaas Road to Doornrug Road | 07h00 – 12h00 |
| · Doornrug Road to R103 Inchanga / 1000 Hills | 02h00 – 12h30 |
| · R103 Inchanga to Bothas Hill Butchery | 02h00 – 13h30 |
| · R103 Patna Road to R103 Galloway Road | 02h00 – 13h45 |
| · Westown, Shongweni, Kassier Road to M13 | 05h30 – 07h00 |
| · Old Main Road Hillcrest – Hospital Road | 02h00 – 14h00 |
| · Hospital Road / Shongweni Rd – M13 Hillcrest | 02h00 – 14h30 |
| · M13 Hillcrest to M13 Westville (Westbound) | 02h00 – 15h00 |
| · M13 Westville to M13 45th Cutting (Westbound) | 02h00 – 15h00 |
| · N3 outbound to Monty Naicker Street | 02h00 – 15h30 |
| · Monty Naicker Street (Pine Street) | 02h00 – 15h30 |
| · Masabalala Yengwa Ave (Southbound) | 02h00 – 16h00 |
“We acknowledge that road closures can create temporary inconvenience. However, Amashova National Classic is a proud celebration of sport, unity, and heritage – and with your patience and cooperation, we can ensure a safe and memorable event for everyone involved,” said Annie Batchelder, Amashova National Classic race director.
Batchelder also extends her sincere thanks to eThekwini Municipality, Mkhambathini Municipality and Msunduzi Municipality for their valued support, as well as Metro Police, RTI and SAPS for their assistance in managing road closures and helping to ensure the safety of all riders, supporters and road users on race day.
Motorists are kindly urged to plan their journeys in advance, use alternative routes where possible, and remain mindful of traffic marshals and signage along the race route.
“We extend our sincere thanks to all residents, businesses, and road users for their support and understanding as we come together to make this year’s event an unforgettable success,” concluded Batchelder.
For more information on road closures or to secure a late entry, go to www.shova.co.za.
