Image: Supplied.

The 2020 Isle of Man TT is the latest major motorcycling event to be cancelled amid the coronavirus outbreak, which was due to place between 30 May-13 June.

The decision comes after confirmation the Island has stepped up its measures to protect the population against the pandemic.

“The decision to cancel has not been taken lightly and all options including postponement and delaying the decision have been considered in detail,” Laurence Skelly, the Minister for Enterprise.

“Representatives from the Isle of Man 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.”

The department’s motorsport team is continuing to work with the Manx Motor Cycle Club for the successful delivery of the 2020 Classic TT Races and Manx Grand Prix which is due to begin on 22 August 2020 and will continue to review the delivery of the event against prevailing global conditions.