TT: Schedule changes to make way for live TV?

Sweeping changes could be on the horizon for the Isle of Man TT as new promoter Vision 9 prepares to take the reins.

The Isle of Man Government is set to hand over the event’s organisation to the London-based events firm ahead of the 2017 TT, and it’s thought the new promoter has big plans for the legendary road races including the potential of introducing live television coverage in the next few years.

However, moving away from the current retrospective broadcasts could mean a huge change in scheduling for the iconic event.

“Which other major sporting events climax on a working day?” current TT boss Paul Phillips, who is expected to remain in place as Vision 9 take over, told MCN’s Stephen Davison.

“Racing on a Friday afternoon is not good for live television so I think the big thing that will have to be worked through with the ferry company, the airlines, the teams, the riders, the Government and Vision 9 is a fundamental schedule change.”

Such a change to the TT schedule could see all racing take place over two weekends, giving the two big bike races prime-time Sunday afternoon TV slots.

For the full, exclusive interview, see the June 15^th edition of MCN.