Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Ulster Grand Prix organisers say future of event 'remains in crisis'

Organisers of the Ulster Grand Prix say the future of the annual road racing event remains under threat.

The Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club revealed last November that debts in the region of £250,000 had created a major financial crisis.

Despite a full programme of racing being run throughout 2019 Race Week, a severe weather warning forecast for Saturday’s principal race day resulted in one of the smallest crowds ever witnessed at Dundrod.

The huge loss of income this caused, compounded by existing liabilities, has created a major financial crisis for Ireland’s oldest and most famous motorcycle race.

Over the past number of months race organisers have met with a host of public representatives including politicians and other government officials.

Representation has also been made to the recently restored NI Assembly and the Department for Communities Minister.

"Whilst there has been a sympathetic hearing to the UGP’s plight, the crisis situation remains," the Dundrod Club said in a statement.

"Discussions continue but, so far, no financial assistance has been made available as we move into the period when preparation for the 2020 event should have been well underway.

"The difficulties facing the Ulster GP and other road races in Northern Ireland have made headlines in recent weeks.

"If the sport is to survive and flourish it will require similar financial support from government that other sports receive.

"Road racing is a part of Northern Ireland’s sporting culture and brings major financial benefits to the Province and local communities.

"Only a small fraction of the sums provided to many other major sporting events would make an enormous difference to events like the Ulster Grand Prix.

"More discussions are planned with government during the weeks ahead as the Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club continues to pursue a solution that will ensure the Ulster Grand Prix reaches its centenary in 2022."

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.