KEIRIN

The London 3 Day
NOVEMBER 13 - NOVEMBER 15
What the race is

The Keirin is a fast-paced, tactical race in which riders follow a pacing motorbike that gradually increases speed before pulling off the track, leaving the riders to unleash an all-out sprint to the finish. Typically run over six to eight laps, the event demands a blend of strategic positioning, explosive power, and razor-sharp timing. With its dramatic accelerations and jostling for position, the Keirin is one of the most unpredictable and adrenaline-charged races in the velodrome.

Key rules

Race Start

Riders line up behind a pacing motorbike (called a derny) in a neutralised start.

Pacing Phase

The derny gradually increases speed from roughly 25 km/h up to around 50 km/h.

No Overtaking the Derny

Riders must remain behind the pacer until it exits the track.

Derny Pull-Off

With about 600–700 metres to go, the derny leaves the track, signalling the start of full racing.

Sprint Phase

Riders accelerate, jostle for position, and launch their sprint to the finish.

Contact Rules

Mild shoulder-to-shoulder contact is permitted, but dangerous riding, blocking, or causing a crash results in disqualification.

Winner

The first rider to cross the finish line after the final sprint wins.