The Isle of Man Government Department of Economic Development has confirmed that it has received a positive response to the initial request for 'Expressions of Interest' for an independent promoter to manage and commercialise the Isle of Man TT Races, Classic TT Races and develop an Isle of Man TT Series.  The first stage of the bid process closed on 28th February with thirteen organisations confirming their interest in the role.  

Expressions of Interest were received by The Sports Consultancy, who is managing the process on behalf of the Isle of Man Government, from organisations that operate in a number of sectors including specialist motorsport promoters, broadcasters, major event promoters and sponsorship rights management companies.  

Additionally, there has been interest from a number of international venues and locations who have declared an interest in hosting a TT series event.  These requests will be passed to the independent promoter should one ultimately be appointed.

The respondents now have until 10th April to complete the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ), after which the Department of Economic Development will evaluate the responses and progress suitable bidders to the preliminary tender stage of the process.

Commenting on the results of the first stage, Matt Wilson, Director at The Sports Consultancy said:

"This is a positive response to the first stage and we have a number of credible candidates interested in the role who have demonstrable track records of expertise in the areas that we are looking for. "

Laurence Skelly, MHK, Minister, Department of Economic Development, commented:

"It was important to the overall success of what we are looking to do that appropriate partners engaged in the first stage of the project and we can now confidently move forward to interrogate their experience and ultimately their ideas as to how we can further grow and build on the potential of the TT Races."