TT 'not directly impacted' by Northern Ireland cancellations

But MHK says increasing costs are an issue for all sports

The loss of road racing events in Northern Ireland won't directly impact the TT Races.

That's the message from the political member with responsibility for motorsport.

Following the overnight announcement that all road racing events in Northern Ireland have been cancelled due to concerns over the rising cost of insurance, Tim Crookall MHK has released a statement.

He says: "The Isle of Man is proud to be a country synonymous with motorcycle road racing and we are saddened to hear of the cancellation of all road racing this year in Northern Ireland, a country that has the sport so ingrained within its heritage. It is a real loss to fans, competitors, communities and all those involved in the events. 

"Increasing costs are a very real issue facing all sports and businesses at this moment in time, and it’s for this reason the Isle of Man TT Races made ensuring the long term sustainability of the event a clear mission within the TT’s overarching strategy.

"In addition to the overarching strategy, the Isle of Man TT have brought in a raft of changes in order to grow the event’s audience and improve accessibility to fans globally through the launch of live broadcast and additional year round content. 

"This approach amongst other changes provide sustainable income streams that can provide assurance to the longevity of the Isle of Man TT Races and ultimately ensure that road racing can remain on the Island.  

"Whilst the loss of the events across Northern Ireland won’t directly impact the Isle of Man TT Races, I would like to add that the Isle of Man TT Races will remain committed to working with any of their competitors that may be impacted by the cancellation."

What about the riders?

Motorsport Commentator Chris Kinley  believes the cancellation of events in Northern Ireland won't affect riders' preparedness for the TT: