The Motorcycle Union of Ireland (Ulster Centre) or MCUI(UC) has organised a fundraiser amid what it calls an “unaffordable” increase in insurance premiums.
An official MCUI(UC) gofundme page seen by Insurance Business reads: “The motorcycle world was rocked here in Northern Ireland when news of the hike in insurance was made clear to all the promoting motorcycle clubs. It was clear to these clubs within the MCUI(UC) that the increase was unaffordable to most, if not all, running events this year.
“The clubs could not agree to progress with the purchase of the insurance policy, despite knowing fully that this would mean the cancellation of all two-wheeled sport in Northern Ireland in 2023. The MCUI(UC), not having the funds to purchase the insurance could therefore not continue.”
Events that have already been cancelled, according to The Irish Times, include the Cookstown 100, Tandragee 100, Armoy Road Races, Ulster Grand Prix, and the Sunflower Trophy.
It was reported that public liability insurance quotes have tripled. To address the shortfall, MCUI(UC) is seeking donations.
“We are now asking our fans, those that love their racing, their road racing and trials, to help us by kindly donating directly to our insurance shortfall fund to give us the chance to have racing this year,” says MCUI(UC) in its gofundme page. “Your efforts, if successful, will result in most, if not all, two-wheeled sport being back on our calendar.”
As of this writing, donations have so far amounted to nearly £49,000. The goal stands at £300,000.
“We cannot afford the premium hikes but nor can we afford to stop the events,” chair John Dillon was quoted by The Irish Times as saying in a statement.
“Members of the MCUI(UC) board and I are now urgently pursuing a series of options and sources, including the launch of a crowdfunding campaign… If racing doesn’t take place in 2023, not only will it be nearly impossible to bring it back in 2024, we will also lose the new riders coming through the ranks.”
Those who wish to donate can do so here.
