Hong Kong Cyclothon organiser apologises after lead vehicle misdirects riders away from Ting Kau Bridge

Organizers of the 2026 Hong Kong Cyclothon expressed regret on Sunday after a lead vehicle sent participants away from a key section of the race on Ting Kau Bridge, causing riders to lose out on the iconic views of the city's western waters. The statement from Sun Hung Kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon, in collaboration with the Cycling Association of Hong Kong, explained that the error occurred when an emergency lane was opened for ambulances to quickly reach two cyclists injured earlier that morning.

The 32km race, which began in the West Kowloon Cultural District, was intended to follow a scenic route featuring both Ting Kau Bridge and Stonecutters Bridge, offering a mix of urban and natural beauty. However, due to the lead vehicle's misjudgment caused by the altered positions of traffic cones, participants were forced onto the Nam Wan Tunnel instead of the planned route. This diversion led to brief traffic congestion, particularly as the stretch was downhill and cyclists had to navigate the tunnel for safety.

The statement acknowledged the disappointment caused by the error, which prevented the 32km group from riding the original course and missing out on the distinctive urban and natural scenery that the Tourism Board had described. Despite the inconvenience, the organiser emphasized that the safety of participants was the top priority, resulting in a quick and efficient response to the emergency situation.