Current TT schedule not too crowded, says Clerk of the Course

New-look programme for 2026 announced this week

The Clerk of the Course for the Isle of Man TT Races does not believe the current schedule for the event is too crowded.

Changes to the races for 2026 were announced this week including an increase in qualifying sessions and contingency slots as well as some switches to race running orders.

A number of technical changes are also due for some of the bike classes, with some comments raising concerns about the cost impact this could have on TT competitors.

Gary Thompson says the new regulations are aimed bringing the TT into line with other major motorsport events around the world:

Meanwhile, the new-look programme is being welcomed by the TT Marshals (TTMA).

At this year's event, the organisation says it set a new record for the amount of volunteers it had around the course in operation at the same time.

Chair of the TTMA, Jane Corlett believes plans for an extra rest day and more contingencies available in 2026 could help give marshals and other volunteers the right amount of 'down time':

TT officials say 51,650 fans visited the racing fortnight this year which they add is the highest in 15 years.

Among the changes coming in for 2026 will be an extra planned rest day on Thursday, 28 May during qualifying week, adding to the rest periods on Monday, 1 June and Thursday, 4 June during race week.

The number of planned practice/qualifying slots will rise from six to seven with the introduction of an extra session during the afternoon of Wednesday, 27 May along with an evening qualifying on the same day.

In terms of racing, the Superstock and Supersport races will switch places in the running order with Superstock races now paired on the same day as Sidecar races with Supersports running alongside the newly-titled 'Sportbike' Class.

The new Sportbike Class - which will include two races - will see Sportbike specification machines being able to compete at the TT for the first time from 2026 in the same category as Supertwin machines.

The 2026 schedule - subject to road closure approval - can be viewed HERE.