Friday road closures: La Vuelta will halt Costa del Sol traffic from Velez to Estepona

Stage 19 of La Vuelta a España 2026 will disrupt traffic on the A-7 from Velez-Malaga to Estepona on Friday, September 11. The race will begin in Velez-Malaga and progress through several towns before finishing in Estepona. Drivers should anticipate a rolling shutdown, with police closing each section shortly before the cyclists arrive and reopening once they have passed.

Traffic delays are expected to start around late lunchtime, with potential tailbacks building from around 2pm. Schools in the area may close early to avoid congestion during the school run, so drivers should plan accordingly. Parking bans are in effect around several locations, including the bus station, Mercado Mayoristas, Blas Infante, and the Carretera de Loja, where vehicles risk being towed if left.

The race will begin at around 11.50am, with riders expected on the Carretera de Almeria around 12.40pm. Most traffic will be diverted, with only a few bus lines remaining unaffected. San Pedro Alcantara will experience the race around 3.30pm to 4.26pm, while traffic on the A-7 near San Pedro Alcantara and Estepona is expected to be the most disrupted between 4pm and 4.28pm.

The A-7 will remain closed for an extended period compared to other areas, so drivers are advised to leave early and monitor DGT and local police feeds for updates.