Quote:
Originally Posted by GORDON STREETER
Rising insurance costs has been an issue across all of Ireland in recent years, but has mainly affected the smaller road racing events.
However, in a hammer blow to the sport of motorcycle racing in Northern Ireland, all events including the country’s largest outdoor sporting meeting, the North West 200 has had to be called off for 2023.
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There has been an update today suggesting a rescue plan is underway.... however it would mean a hike in entry fees, extra sponsorship and a crowdfunding appeal. That, and negotiation with the insurance companies for a better deal. Good luck with the latter.
However a half million pound hole is a big one to fill and hits the competitors and spectators in their pockets. Maybe the major professional teams with big backing can manage it but for those with minimal support that many are its a huge ask and will scare many away. Again a crowdfunding appeal they are in effect hiking the admission cost up. Sponsorship is the other hope to fill some of the hole.
They are worried missing a year will be difficult to come back from.
In a nutshell its a Catch 22...they cant afford to run the meetings but they cant afford not to for the implications. Also those locals in hospitality who rely on the events for the income are going to be left short. A bit like the coffee bars and restaurants in Spain and the like during Covid.
A sad state of affairs. Wish them the best of luck.
FUll details of the hopes:
https://www.motorsport.com/roadracin...2023/10430381/