Ulster Grand Prix cancelled as funding denied

Government funding of £800,000 had been signed off to bring the historic Dundrod event and the North West 200 under one organisational umbrella, but the financial rescue package has not been supported by Tourism NI.

The decision means the Ulster Grand Prix – scheduled to have taken place from August 16-20 – cannot go ahead.

A statement issued by the directors of the Revival MCC – former NW200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte, road racing great Phillip McCallen and Robin Titterington – said: “It is with much regret that we must announce the Revival Racing MCC is not in a position to stage the Ulster Grand Prix in 2022.

“We would like to place on record our sincere thanks to the Department of Economy and Department of Finance who both fully endorsed our proposal which would have delivered the biggest investment in motorcycling ever seen in Northern Ireland.

“Unfortunately, Tourism NI has informed us it will not support the level of funding agreed.

“The funding proposal was a joint venture between the UGP and NW200 to provide support to both international events which showcase Northern Ireland around the world.

“Revival Racing MCC has spent the last year engaging with TNI and government departments to explore the opportunities to increase the economic benefit of the UGP and NW200 to NI.

“All parties have been involved in in-depth business case appraisals which have confirmed excellent value for money and a huge impact on the economy.”

The statement added that whether or not the Ulster GP would return in the future was ‘unclear’.

“We are aware that the cancellation of the UGP, which is celebrating its centenary year, is not just a huge disappointment for fans but also a major blow to the sport.

“But we are simply unable to stage