Ulster Grand Prix In 'Real Imminent Danger'

The future of the Ulster Grand Prix road race is in danger of disappearing from the racing calendar due to serious financial problems.

The Dundrod and District Club issued a statement explaining the "real and imminent danger" facing the international road race after a severe weather warning deterred crowds from attending this year's event.

The August event began in a blaze of glory as Peter Hickman set a new lap record speed of 136.415mph that brought the 'World's Fastest Road Race' title back to the Dundrod circuit and more fantastic racing was to follow but the weather alert caused many fans to stay at home on the Saturday race day.

Organisers said this resulted in perhaps the smallest crowd the event has ever witnessed. The huge loss of income, compounded by existing liabilities, has resulted in a major financial crisis for the club.

Efforts to manage this difficult situation have now reached a critical juncture and a decision must now be made as to whether or not the race will take place in 2020.

Professional advice has been sought and an urgent review is being carried out in respect of the viability of the event for 2020, together with the options available for dealing with the existing financial liabilities. Race organisers will consider the outcome of this review and a decision will be taken in the coming weeks as to the future of the Club and the Ulster Grand Prix.

"The Ulster Grand Prix celebrated its 97th birthday in 2019," Robert Graham, Chairman of the Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club, said.

"The race organisers have met with local MP, Jeffrey Donaldson, alongside representatives of Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council as we continue to seek a solution to the financial problems that would enable Northern Ireland's most prestigious and historic motorcycle race to continue towards its 100th anniversary.

"It is clear though, that in the absence of significant financial support, the Ulster Grand Prix is in real and imminent danger of disappearing from the road racing calendar, an outcome that would be a major blow for motorcycle sport in Northern Ireland."

Alliance Councillor for Killultagh David Honeyford said the potential loss of the event is a blow to Northern Ireland.

Councillor Honeyford said: "The Ulster Grand Prix is a flagship event not just for the Lisburn area, but important for all of Northern Ireland. Every year thousands of visitors from around the world come for the racing, providing an important financial boost for local businesses.

"The Dundrod and District Club, which organises the Grand Prix, have a close relationship with many local community groups who benefit from ticket sales. It is unfortunate that the success of the event has been so dependent on weather conditions resulting in reduced income during poor summers.

"I will be in contact with the organisers and hope a sustainable financial plan can be agreed to secure the future of the Grand Prix, which is too important an event to be lost."



(JG/CM)