Isle of Man TT Clerk of the Course Responds to Online Criticism
Gary Thompson, the Isle of Man TT's Clerk of the Course, has defended his decisions during the 2026 event, which was marred by poor weather and a lack of light.
The Isle of Man TT's Clerk of the Course, Gary Thompson, has spoken out against online criticism of his decisions during the 2026 event. The TT failed to complete a full race schedule, with only half the races going ahead from start to finish.
The blue riband Senior TT was brought forward from its original slot in an attempt to complete the race, but a crash on lap two resulted in red flags being waved. The deteriorating weather and lack of light meant that the Senior race was moved once again, but the final day of racing was ultimately cancelled due to poor weather.
Thompson has admitted that he was faced with making tough decisions throughout the event, some of which were unlikely to please everyone. However, he emphasized that safety was his top priority and that he would not put competitors in conditions that were not satisfactory.
Speaking to Manx Radio, Thompson said, "If that means putting in a delay, then so be it. If it also means cancelling a day's racing, then so be it." He also acknowledged that he was in a "no-win situation," but that this was part of being the Clerk of the Course.
The criticism Thompson has faced is particularly odd, given the tragic events of the 2026 TT. One rider died following an accident in qualifying, and there were also two high-profile incidents in the sidecar class that led to the category being suspended.
Despite the challenges he faced, Thompson has shown no signs of wavering in his commitment to safety. He has stated that he would rather put in a delay or cancel a day's racing than risk the safety of competitors.
### Safety First at the Isle of Man TT
Gary Thompson's response to online criticism highlights the importance of safety at the Isle of Man TT. The Clerk of the Course has made it clear that he will not compromise on safety, even if it means making unpopular decisions.
Thompson's commitment to safety is all the more impressive given the tragic events of the 2026 TT. The loss of a rider and the high-profile incidents in the sidecar class serve as a reminder of the risks involved in motorcycle racing.
### The Challenges of Running a Motorcycle Event
Running a motorcycle event like the Isle of Man TT is a complex and challenging task. The Clerk of the Course must balance the need to provide a competitive and exciting event with the need to ensure the safety of competitors.
Thompson's response to online criticism highlights the difficulties he faced during the 2026 TT. The poor weather and lack of light meant that he had to make tough decisions about whether to delay or cancel the event.
Despite these challenges, Thompson has shown no signs of wavering in his commitment to safety. He has stated that he would rather put in a delay or cancel a day's racing than risk the safety of competitors.
### Conclusion
The Isle of Man TT's Clerk of the Course, Gary Thompson, has responded to online criticism of his decisions during the 2026 event. He has emphasized the importance of safety and stated that he would rather put in a delay or cancel a day's racing than risk the safety of competitors.
Thompson's commitment to safety is all the more impressive given the tragic events of the 2026 TT. The loss of a rider and the high-profile incidents in the sidecar class serve as a reminder of the risks involved in motorcycle racing.
Ultimately, Thompson's response to online criticism highlights the complexities and challenges of running a motorcycle event like the Isle of Man TT.
