For the 2nd time in a row, one of the world’s most thrilling motorsport event, the Isle of Man TT has been cancelled as the Isle of Man Government decides to cancel upcoming 2021 Isle of Man TT due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The event was scheduled to take place from the 29th of May to the 12th of June 2021. Although the event is 6 months away from now, the governing body has called the event off early to minimize disruption of travel plans.
In the case of Classic TT and Manx Grand Prix, the events are scheduled to run from 21st August to 3rd September 2021. However, the situation will be monitored and the final decision on whether these events will run as scheduled or not will be announced by end of March 2021. So, folks, there is a bit of hope left!
As for the Isle of Man TT 2022, the Department for Enterprise confirmed that event is scheduled to take place from 28th May to 11th June 2022.
“We do not underestimate the disappointment that this decision will cause to many people. However, we are making an early, logical decision to provide certainty and clarity to race fans and everyone else involved in the event.
“The TT relies on thousands of volunteers and officials across a wide range of organisations and we could not move responsibly towards a positive decision to proceed in planning for 2021, which would involve committing to welcoming tens of thousands of people to the Island in June, despite the progress towards a vaccination programme globally and on the Island.
“We evaluated all possible options including moving the TT to a date later in the year but there are complexities and risks, including scaling up of certain infrastructure and critical delivery elements of the TT, as well as existing resident and visitor travel in late August, which would cause further disruption to thousands of people.”
“This decision has not been taken lightly but has been taken in the interests of the Island, the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors, and is in line with our ongoing pandemic strategy. However, whilst making this decision, it does not necessarily mean that we believe the Island’s borders will remain under the current restrictions as we hope to welcome visitors back to the Island at the earliest opportunity.
“To the fans around the world, I would say that we are really sorry to have to make this decision, but that we sincerely hope that we will still see you at some point next year.
“The cancellation will have clear and immediate impacts on the Island’s tourism and travel businesses, and the Department for Enterprise will be issuing a further statement today (Monday), regarding additional support for industry to maintain and protect our strong visitor experience for the long term.”