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Several main roads in Istanbul were closed to traffic on Sunday, Sept. 7, due to the "Tour of Istanbul," an international cycling race recognized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).
The Istanbul Police Department announced that closures started at 7 a.m. local time (GMT+3), with alternative routes designated for drivers.
Among the key roads closed were the Eurasia Tunnel (from the European to the Asian side), parts of Kennedy Avenue along the coastline in the Fatih and Zeytinburnu districts, and major connections such as Ragip Gumuspala Avenue, Adnan Menderes Boulevard (known locally as Vatan Avenue), and several streets in Eyupsultan.
The closures extended to both directions on Savaklar Avenue and coastal routes leading toward Sirkeci, a central transportation hub.
Authorities advised motorists to use Turgut Ozal Boulevard (Millet Avenue), Fevzipasa Avenue, Macarkardesler Avenue, Ataturk Bridge (also known as Unkapani Bridge), and various alternative routes in the Fatih, Zeytinburnu, and Bakirkoy districts to minimize disruption.
The Tour of Istanbul is included in the UCI’s 2.1 multi-stage road cycling category, which allows professional teams to compete for international ranking points. The race spans four days and four stages, bringing together 135 cyclists from 17 teams across 13 countries.
Organizers said the event is designed not only to host a high-level competition but also to showcase Istanbul’s historic and cultural landmarks to an international audience.
The race is organized under the coordination of the Turkish Cycling Federation, with the backing of Türkiye’s Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Istanbul Governorship, district municipalities—led by Fatih Municipality—and the Spor Toto Organization.
The UCI and bicycle equipment company Shimano also support the event.
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