Traffic alert issued to Perth motorists ahead of Westbridge Funds Road National Championships

The 2026 Westbridge Funds Road National Championships will be taking over roads throughout central Perth, and motorists are being warned of disturbances to usual routes, with towing to apply to those who do not follow the rules.

“Please plan ahead, expect delays and avoid the area if possible,” the AusCycling site states.

The event, running from Wednesday, January 7 to Sunday, January 11, brought more than 50,000 fans, 3,000 competitors and added $9.4 million to the local economy last year.

The event will cause disruptions to hospital access for people needing to attend the Sir Charles Gairdner, Perth Children’s, Hollywood, Mount and King Edward Memorial hospitals, with alternative access maps available on the AusCycling site.

Roads throughout Kings Park, Bold Park, parts of West Coast Highway, Mounts Bay Road, St George’s Terrace and The Esplanade will be closed at different points over the five-day event.

Managed crossings are also included in the disruptions.

Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the City of Perth was thrilled to host the Australian race event again.

“The event brings world-class cycling to our streets and showcases Perth as a vibrant and dynamic sporting destination,” Mr Reynolds said.

“I’m especially proud that Kings Park and our lively Northbridge precinct will again feature as part of the circuit.

“These cultural and natural landmarks highlight the diversity and energy that make our city so special.

“I have no doubt the people of Perth will again line the route to create an unforgettable atmosphere for riders and spectators alike.”

AusCycling CEO Marne Fechner said the biggest names in the sport would be heading to Perth for the event.

“Winning a national championship and earning the right to wear the green-and-gold bands for the upcoming year is the ultimate prize for every Australian cyclist, and we can’t wait for the stars of Aussie cycling to return to Perth to start the summer,” Ms Fechner said.

Internationally recognised cyclists Ben O’Connor, Sophia Sammons and Luke Durbridge will take to the roads in this years competition.

“Last year, we saw crowds in their tens of thousands cheering on the fairytale victory of hometown hero Mr Durbridge.

“We invite every sports fan in Perth to join the event this January, not just to watch the racing, but also to take part in all the family and community activities, such as the AusBike Community Ride.

“Hosting the national championship in Perth was a huge success in 2025, and we can’t wait to kick off 2026 with all the entertainment and spectacle of this premier event.”

Time trials at Perth High Performance Centre begin Wednesday and continue Thursday, the Criterium will take place in Northbridge on Friday, and across Saturday and Sunday, the Road Race and Gran Fondo (only Sunday) will take place at Kings Park.

The event will include family-friendly festivities, including rides, food trucks, live music and expo stands.

For day-by-day road closures visit the Auscycling website.