M6 Toll Closed: Coach Fire Causes Traffic Chaos – Warwickshire | Man City Fans Affected
A coach carrying Manchester City fans to the League Cup final against Arsenal erupted in flames on the M6 Toll road near Coleshill, Warwickshire, halting traffic in both directions. Emergency services responded to the incident, which occurred shortly before midday on Sunday, March 22, 2026.
National Highways confirmed the southbound carriageway between junction T4 (Weeford) and junction T2 (Coleshill) was closed following the fire. Images circulating on social media show the rear of the coach, operated by Ridleys Coaches, heavily damaged by fire, with plumes of smoke visible for miles. Passengers were reportedly evacuated from the vehicle prior to the arrival of emergency crews and were seen standing on the grass verge.
One Manchester City fan, speaking to the Manchester Evening News, stated that the coach was carrying supporters travelling to Wembley Stadium for the match. Another fan posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, describing a standstill in traffic and expressing hope that everyone involved was safe. The incident is causing significant disruption for fans attempting to reach London for the 4:30 PM kick-off.
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service and Warwickshire Police have been contacted for comment. Queues are building on the A38 and surrounding roads as drivers attempt to avoid the closure, with delays reported on London Road and Lichfield Road near Bassetts Pole. National Highways has not yet provided an estimated time for the reopening of the southbound carriageway.
Ridleys Coaches has been contacted for a statement regarding the incident and the condition of the vehicle. The cause of the fire remains unknown at this time.
