Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix 2021 Cancelled

This year's Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix have been cancelled.

In a statement released today government says the decision was made following 'extensive consultation.'

The races were due to run from Sunday, August 22 to Friday, September 3.

Minister for the Department for Enterprise Laurence Skelly MHK says the main issue is availability of sufficient marshals, medics and race officials.

He's described it as an 'early, but regrettable, decision' to provide clarity and certainty to race officials, fans and sponsors, as well as the teams and competitors.’

‘We also have to prioritise the health and wellbeing of the Island’s residents, and the sustainability of our own health service, through managing our island’s border protocols, allowing medical professionals both on the Island, and those that come over to support the event, to instead be able to concentrate on the ongoing medical challenges presented by the global pandemic.’

‘Our focus and resources will now be switched on to the successful return of racing on the Mountain Course for the 2022 TT Races, Classic TT Races and Manx Grand Prix and we look forward to welcoming visitors to our island when it is safe and practical for them to return.’

Whilst the cancellation will lead to immediate postponements and cancellations from tourists, it is hoped that through a combination of staycation, air bridges and the gradual reopening of the borders in line with the Exit Framework recently published, the visitor economy will this year start its recovery and over time bring much missed leisure visitors back to the Island. 

The sector has been provided with financial support throughout the pandemic, and remains under review.

The Department for Enterprise has restated its broad commitment to ensure that support will remain available where businesses and employment are threatened due to COVID-19 and the associated border restrictions.