London - The Isle of Man has cancelled the annual TT motorcycle races due to the spreading coronavirus outbreak, the government of the British Crown Dependency said on Monday.
The annual races around the island off the north-west coast of England have been run since 1907 and rank among the most dangerous in motorsport.
This year's event was scheduled to take place from May 30 to June 13.
"The decision to cancel has not been taken lightly and all options including postponement and delaying the decision have been considered in detail," said Minister for Enterprise Laurence Skelly in a statement.
"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.
"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 races were last cancelled in 2001 to prevent an outbreak of foot and mouth disease spreading from Britain.
The event attracts tens of thousands of visitors from all over Europe and contributes significantly to the local Manx economy.
The Tourist Trophy races have seen some 149 fatalities since the first race in 1907.
Reuters
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