Joburg Braces for Rugby Showdown: Major Road Closures Announced for FNB Stadium
Motorists urged to plan as Springboks host All Blacks in blockbuster Test
The City of Johannesburg and the Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) have issued a comprehensive traffic advisory for Saturday, 5 September 2026, as FNB Stadium prepares to host the highly anticipated Rugby Championship clash between the Springboks and the All Blacks. With tens of thousands of rugby fans expected to converge on the iconic Soweto venue, authorities are warning of significant road closures and traffic diversions.
Road Closures Begin at 11:00
Motorists are advised that several major routes around the FNB Stadium precinct will be closed or restricted from 11:00 on Saturday. The closures are designed to facilitate the safe and efficient movement of spectators to and from the match, which kicks off at 17:10.
Key routes affected include the Soweto Highway, which will be restricted to buses and authorised vehicles. Crownwood Road and Booysens Reserve Road will also be closed to general traffic. Nasrec Road will be converted into a four-lane one-way system specifically to manage the high volume of post-match traffic. Motorists are urged to avoid these areas if possible and to use alternative routes such as the N1, M1, N12, or Main Reef Road to bypass the precinct.
Parking is Strictly Pre-booked
In a move to manage the high demand for parking, the City has confirmed that pre-booked parking tickets are mandatory for any private vehicle seeking entry into the stadium precinct. There will be no ticket sales on-site, and vehicles without a valid parking ticket will be denied entry. Fans are strongly encouraged to secure their parking in advance to avoid disappointment.
Public Transport is the Preferred Option
With parking extremely limited, authorities are urging spectators to make use of the extensive public transport network. Dedicated Park-and-Ride services, operated by Park and Ride SA, will be available, as will the Rea Vaya bus system and Gautrain shuttle services. E-hailing services will also be operational, with designated pick-up and drop-off points located at the Landbou Road Transport Hub.
The Gautrain will operate shuttle buses between Park Station and FNB Stadium, with services running between 12:00 and 20:30 to accommodate the match schedule.
Plan and Stay Safe
The JMPD has urged all motorists and spectators to plan their journeys well in advance. Fans are advised to load their digital tickets early and to follow the instructions of traffic officers on the ground. With the match expected to draw a capacity crowd, heavy traffic is anticipated in and around the Nasrec area. Motorists are advised to allow for extra travel time and to exercise patience on the roads.
