Manx Grand Prix 2023: Darryl Anderson excluded after failing drugs test

Manx Grand Prix newcomer Darryl Anderson has been excluded from the 2023 event after failing a drugs test.

Anderson, from Garvagh in Northern Ireland, was due to compete In the Senior and Classic Senior events, however organisers have now revealed that he tested positive during a random drugs test.

The statement reads:

“ACU Events Ltd, race organiser of the Manx Grand Prix Races, can confirm that Darryl Anderson, a competitor in the Senior and Classic Senior MGP classes, has been excluded from the 2023 event following a positive drugs test.

“Anderson, a newcomer at the Manx Grand Prix, tested positive for the use of recreational substances in a random drugs test carried out as part of the event’s drug and alcohol screening protocols.

“On behalf of the ACUE, the Auto Cycle Union (ACU) have passed the matter on to the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (MCUI), the national governing body for motorcycle sport in Ireland, to carry out their formal judicial process.

“The Manx Grand Prix Races and the ACU share a strict zero-tolerance policy for the presence of drugs and alcohol for officials and competitors during an event period.”

Two qualifying sessions are due to take place today (August 24), with roads surrounding the Snaefell Mountain Course due to close at 12:30pm before the Senior and Classic Superbikes venture out at 1pm.

The Junior, Lightweight, and Classic Senior bikes will follow at 2.25pm with roads reopening no later than 4.30pm.

Roads will close again at 6pm ahead of the Senior and Classic Superbike session at 6:30pm, with the remaining classes returning to the circuit at 7:15pm. Roads will reopen no later than 9pm.