The Isle of Man TT is the most famed road race in the world. As thrilling as it is deadly, the Manx circuit and TT lore make the Isle of Man races an annual rite for road racing fans. Now, there are stirrings of a possible global TT racing series. The IOM government has announced a "feasibility review" on branding international events at TT Races and creating a world series. The additional TT-branded rounds could be added by 2014. - MCUSA Ed
Will TT-branded races be added to a complete international schedule of events? The IOM government is looking into the feasibility of such an arrangement.
The Isle of Man Government’s Department of Economic Development, the commercial rights holders of the TT Races, is embarking on a feasibility review into the possibility of taking TT Races branded events internationally, as part of a world series. The move is part of the plans to develop the TT brand internationally and promote the Isle of Man.
The TT Races, which have been held on the Isle of Man since 1907, is a significant contributor to the positive national identity of the Isle of Man internationally and it is also the Island’s most recognized brand.
The Department funds the TT Races to drive economic development on the Isle of Man to generate tourism and commercial income and to provide a sport’s based platform for Isle of Man based companies to make business contacts as well as profiling the benefits of businesses incorporating on the Isle of Man.
The intention is to build a platform that will increase the return on investment for The Isle of Man Government in the TT Races brand through sponsorship, television, licensing and hospitality, generate revenue earning opportunities for the competitors and teams who take part, and to provide economic and commercial benefits for the destinations and other commercial partners who host rounds.
A consultation exercise will begin shortly as part of the feasibility review and if the proposal is viable, the Department will look to instigate a program of events for the 2014 racing season.
Hon Allan Bell, MHK, Minister, Department of Economic Development commented:
“We are in the early stages of a consultation process and would welcome approaches from potential partners who are interested in the venture. The TT Races, as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting events, has incredible heritage and attracts interest worldwide from fans. We want to develop and grow this global audience for the benefit both of the event and the Isle of Man.”
