The decision marks the first time in nearly 20 years the races have been cancelled.

The Council of Ministers has been taken following confirmation that ’the island has stepped up its measures to protect the population against the pandemic’.

Laurence Skelly, Minister for Enterprise, whose department organises the TT, said that ’the decision to cancel has not been taken lightly and all options, including postponement and delaying the decision, have been considered in detail’.

Mr Skelly said:

’Representatives from the government will now discuss the implications with all relevant businesses, stakeholders and individuals affected by this cancellation, which it recognises will be significant.

’With the visitor restriction in place for the foreseeable future we wanted to make the decision now to give businesses, visitors and all involved stakeholders time to manage the impact going forward.

’The Isle of Man, and the Isle of Man TT, are faced with unique challenges regarding Covid-19 and making this decision will provide certainty to teams, competitors, sponsors and stakeholders of the event and to visitors across the globe.

’The decision also aims to provide reassurance for our residents and healthcare professionals that the health and well-being of the Isle of Man’s residents is the single biggest priority and focus of this government.’

While the TT has been shown the red flag, the department’s motorsport team is continuing to work with the Manx Motor Cycle Club to deliver the 2020 Classic TT Races and Manx Grand Prix which is due to begin on August 22 and will continue to review the delivery of the event against prevailing global conditions.

At a press conference Adrian Darbyshire asked Mr Skelly:

’Was consideration ever given to postponing instead of cancelling the TT ?’ The Minister confirmed that the idea had been considered.

However, he added: ’

Given the different profile of the Classic TT and the Manx Grand Prix, we decided against that particular option and opted for cancellation of the TT, with the focus on to try and retain that event as it currently stands.’

The last time the TT was cancelled was in 2001, when foot and mouth disease ravaged British farms. However, the preventative measures that were taken prevented the disease from reaching the island.

The TT is not the only event to be cancelled or postponed. Likewise the Pre and Post TT Events at Billown, and the approaching ARA events at Jurby