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.
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©Words/Images above are from an official press release posted courtesy Isle of Man TT Races
For more Isle of Man TT Races news head to our dedicated page: Isle of Man TT Races News Home Page
or head to the official Isle of Man TT website iomttraces.com
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What are the Isle of Man TT Races
There are very few sporting events in the world with the tradition, heritage, and prestige of the Isle of Man TT Races. Despite being the world’s oldest continuous motorsports event, the TT remains, however, as fascinating and relevant today – continuously inspiring new generations of riders to come and race the Mountain Course.
Largely unchanged since 1911, the 37.73 miles of public roads simply capture the imagination like no other motorcycling venue can. The TT Course, whilst difficult to learn, is even harder to master – requiring immense levels of skill and concentration as speeds nudge an incredible 200mph.
2026 TT Schedule is available at – https://www.iomttraces.com/racing/page/schedule/
In June 2025, it was announced that Amazon MGM Studios had picked up a film and docuseries package centred on the Isle of Man TT Races. The feature film is being produced by Free Association, Plan B and Entertainment 360, with Channing Tatum and Eve Hewson attached to star and Reid Carolin directing. More information can be found:
https://www.iomttraces.com/latest/news/amazon-tt-film-docuseries/Discover TT+
TT+ is the official digital home of the Isle of Man TT Races – offering free, year-round access to the world’s greatest road racing event. Fans can enjoy an ever-growing library of exclusive original content, interviews, as well as over 30 years of archive race highlights.
TT+ brings viewers closer than ever to the riders, machines, and stories that define the TT. Available online and across smart TVs, mobile devices, and tablets, TT+ transforms how fans around the world experience the Mountain Course.
Access TT+ free at – ttplus.iomttraces.com/
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