Motorists are being warned of major travel disruption this weekend as planned M25 closures are set to coincide with England’s international football fixture at Wembley Stadium on Friday night.
The second wave of March M25 closures will see the motorway shut between junctions 10 and 11 from 9pm, sparking fears of heavy congestion for football fans heading home and holidaymakers travelling to Gatwick or Heathrow airports.
The RAC has issued a strong advisory urging drivers to plan ahead and consider alternative routes or public transport to avoid long delays.
‘Red Card’ Warning for Drivers
Alice Simpson, spokesperson for RAC Breakdown, warned that the timing of the closure could lead to a traffic nightmare for thousands of fans exiting Wembley.
“This weekend’s M25 closures could present a ‘red card’ for drivers heading home from Wembley Stadium on Friday night. With junctions 10 to 11 shutting at 9pm, just before the sold-out England game finishes, heavy congestion is almost inevitable for those travelling back to Sussex and Surrey.”
She added:
“We encourage football fans to seek alternative routes where possible or use public transport to minimise queuing in traffic.”
Advice for Weekend Travellers
The RAC also highlighted potential disruption for those planning to visit London for the weekend or flying out of Heathrow and Gatwick airports, both of which are more commonly accessed by car.
“It’s absolutely essential that drivers follow the official diversion routes, rather than relying solely on their sat navs, to avoid being led off-course,” Simpson said. “Plan your route before you set off, leave even earlier than usual and make sure your vehicle is road-ready, checking your oil and coolant levels and ensuring your tyres are properly inflated.”
Plan Ahead
National Highways has reiterated that the M25 closure is part of vital improvement works, but urges drivers to consult travel advice, use diversion signage, and allow extra travel time.
Further updates are expected from National Highways and local transport authorities in the lead-up to the weekend.
