TT SIDECAR SUSTAINABILITY REVIEW REACHES FIRST MILESTONE
The Isle of Man TT Races has today published the First-Stage Report of the TT Sidecar Sustainability Review, marking the conclusion of the initial evidence-gathering phase announced following the suspension of the Sidecar class during TT 2026.
The Review has brought together a broad range of evidence, including more than 460 public submissions, together with dedicated panels involving competitors, technical specialists and representatives from across the Race Organisation.
The purpose of the Review has been to consider the long-term sustainability of Sidecar racing at the Isle of Man TT, examining the class across a range of factors including safety, technical development, sporting health, participation, affordability and governance.
The First-Stage Report concludes that there remains strong support for retaining Sidecar racing as part of the Isle of Man TT. However, it also finds broad agreement that the class cannot simply return in its previous form and that meaningful change will be required to ensure its long-term future.
Importantly, the Review concludes that there is a credible pathway towards the continued inclusion of Sidecars at the TT through a phased programme of reform.
The report recommends that the next stage of work should focus on developing a practical package of measures capable of supporting a controlled return to competition, whilst continuing longer-term technical research to shape the future evolution of the class.
The proposed initial programme includes work around reducing overall performance, strengthening technical controls, improving chassis assurance, enhancing scrutineering and competitor standards, and refining the technical regulations.
Alongside this, a longer-term programme will examine areas including aerodynamics, chassis development and future technical concepts through evidence-led engineering work.
Gary Thompson MBE, BEM, TT Clerk of the Course said:
"The purpose of this Review has never been to decide whether Sidecars should simply return or disappear. Our responsibility has been to understand the challenges facing the class and determine whether there is a credible and sustainable way forward.
"The evidence gathered over recent weeks has been extensive and, importantly, remarkably consistent. There remains enormous affection for Sidecar racing and recognition of its unique place within the TT. At the same time, there is broad acceptance that meaningful change is required if the class is to thrive into the future.
"This report does not represent the end of the process. It marks the end of the first stage.
"Our focus now turns to working with competitors, constructors, governing bodies and technical experts to develop an initial package of reforms that can be delivered within an appropriate timeframe, while continuing the longer-term engineering work that will shape the future direction of the class."
The Review recommends the establishment of a Technical Development Group to take forward the next phase of work, supported by ongoing consultation with competitors, constructors, the Auto Cycle Union and the wider Sidecar racing community.
Further updates will be provided as this work progresses.
