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International cycling event shuts down significant city thoroughfares in Istanbul on September 7th

In Istanbul, the Tour of Istanbul takes place, causing various roads to be shut down for the UCI-approved multi-day biking competition. The competition involves 135 cyclists representing 17 teams hailing from 13 different countries.

, and Administrator

2025 September 15 . 12:48 PM

1 min read

International cycling event in Istanbul on Sept. 7 results in the closure of significant city... — International cycling event in Istanbul on Sept. 7 results in the closure of significant city roads.

International cycling event shuts down significant city thoroughfares in Istanbul on September 7th

The Tour of Istanbul, a high-level international cycling race, took place on September 7, 2023. This four-day event, part of the UCI's 2.1 multi-stage road cycling category, attracted 135 cyclists from 17 teams across 13 countries.

The Turkish Cycling Federation, with support from Türkiye's Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Istanbul Governorship, district municipalities, and the Spor Toto Organization, organized the race. The UCI and bicycle equipment company Shimano also lent their backing to the event.

To minimise disruption, 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. Several major roads, including Savaklar Avenue, coastal routes leading toward Sirkeci, parts of Kennedy Avenue in the Fatih and Zeytinburnu districts, Ragip Gumuspala Avenue, Adnan Menderes Boulevard (known locally as Vatan Avenue), and several streets in Eyupsultan, were closed during the race.

The Eurasia Tunnel was also closed as part of the race. The event aimed to showcase Istanbul's historic and cultural landmarks to an international audience, providing a unique blend of sporting competition and cultural tourism.

The Tour of Istanbul offered professional teams the opportunity to compete for international ranking points, making it an exciting addition to the cycling calendar. The race, coordinated under the Turkish Cycling Federation, proved to be a resounding success, further cementing Istanbul's reputation as a vibrant and dynamic city.