Huntsville Police Urge Cautious Driving Around Para-cyclists Leading up to Championship Races
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (August 26, 2026) – Nearly 400 para-cyclists from 49 countries are arriving in the Rocket City this week to prepare for the 2026 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships, which will be held September 4-7 in Cummings Research Park. The first teams are already here, including Great Britain, and most other teams will arrive Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 29-30.
Drivers will see cyclists on local roadways now through next week leading up to the races, and you are urged to be cautious and give them room. They are staying in hotels in all parts of the city, and will be riding to the course from all over to train, in addition to training on other roads.
Huntsville Police spoke at a news conference on Wednesday to raise awareness about the increased number of cyclists on Huntsville roads.
“For those of us behind the wheel, our message is really simple,” said Sergeant Chris Jackson, Public Information Officer. “Slow down. Put the phone away. Look twice. Make sure you’re leaving plenty of following distance. And when you pass a cyclist, give them at least three feet — more when you can.”
Cyclists will be riding bicycles, tall tricycles, tandem cycles, and handcycles. Some of the handcycles sit very low to the ground, making them more difficult for drivers to see, particularly when drivers turn, change lanes or approach from behind.
“If you don’t have enough room to pass safely, wait,” urged Sgt. Jackson. “I know that’s not always the easiest thing to hear when you’re trying to get somewhere. We’re all busy. We’ve all been caught behind slower-moving traffic and thought, ‘Come on, I’ve got somewhere to be.’ But a few extra seconds of patience is worth it to make sure everyone gets where they’re going safely.”
The athletes have come to Huntsville to compete with the best in the world, and the public is encouraged to come watch and cheer them on September 4-7. Explorer Boulevard will be closed for the majority of the race weekend, as it is the main race ring.
Time Trials are Friday and Saturday, Sept. 4-5 and the Road Races are Sunday and Monday, Sept. 6-7. Spectators are especially encouraged to attend the Road Race days. The races are free, and all are welcome to come and watch and cheer on the athletes. Team USA will be here as well! Find more information on the best spots to drive in and park at huntsvilleparaworlds.com.
