Isle of Wight Diamond Races: Road Racing Arrives

For the first time in its rich history, the picturesque Isle of Wight is set to host a major, closed-road motorcycle race, bringing an exhilarating spectacle previously associated predominantly with the Isle of Man TT directly to its shores. This groundbreaking event, dubbed the ‘Diamond Races Isle of Wight’, is poised to transform the island’s autumn landscape, offering not only a thrilling display of speed and skill but also a significant and much-anticipated economic boost to the local community.

Scheduled for October 2021, this momentous occasion will see elite riders battle it out in a time trial format, pushing their machines to astounding speeds of up to 210mph. The chosen battleground is a challenging 12.4-mile road course, weaving its way through the charming villages of Chale, Shorwell, and Brighstone. The circuit is meticulously designed to test competitors to their limits, featuring intricate, winding sections that demand precision and technical prowess, alongside a breathtaking five-mile fast coastal stretch along the iconic Military Road, where speeds are expected to soar. This event marks a truly historic moment for the Isle of Wight, establishing it as a new, formidable player on the international road racing circuit.

The Vision Behind the Speed: A World-Class Endeavour

The Diamond Races is far from a 'mickey mouse' event; it is a meticulously planned and professionally executed undertaking. With an estimated staging cost in the region of £2 million to £5 million, the organisers are aiming to establish one of the highest prize money pots in the sport, attracting the crème de la crème of motorcycle road racers. The ambition is clear: to create an event that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the world's most prestigious road races.

This colossal project is spearheaded by a truly world-class team, comprised of some of the most respected names in the racing industry. At the helm is Gary Thompson MBE, the esteemed Isle of Man TT Clerk of the Course, whose unparalleled experience ensures the highest standards of safety and competition. He is joined by an impressive roster of experts, including former British Champion and multiple TT winner Steve Plater, British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) winners James Kaye and Matt Neal, former F1 marketing manager William Parry, and former Honda Racing manager Neil Tuxworth. Such a calibre of leadership underscores the seriousness and professionalism with which the Diamond Races is being brought to life, promising an event of unparalleled quality.

Anticipated Economic Boost and Community Impact

The inspiration for the Diamond Races' potential economic impact is clearly drawn from the success of its famous counterpart, the Isle of Man TT. Each year, the Isle of Man experiences a phenomenal boost of over £30 million to its local economy as a direct result of the motorcycle racing, attracting approximately 60,000 visitors who collectively spend in excess of £44 million, supporting some 815 jobs. The organisers of the Diamond Races harbour high hopes that at least a significant portion of this success can be replicated on the Isle of Wight.

Initial estimates project that around 15,000 visitors will attend the inaugural event in Year 1, with this number expected to grow substantially, potentially reaching 50,000 in subsequent years. This influx of visitors is anticipated to inject vital funds into the local economy, supporting businesses, creating employment opportunities, and extending the island's tourist season into the quieter autumn months. The event aspires to become as integral to the island's identity and prosperity as established fixtures like the Isle of Wight Festival and Cowes Week, solidifying its place as a major calendar highlight and a significant economic boost for the region.

Comparative Economic Impact: Isle of Man TT vs. Diamond Races (Projected)

The Course Unveiled: A Rider's Challenge

The 12.4-mile Diamond Races circuit promises a true test of nerve and skill. The race will commence on the iconic Military Road, guiding around 36 competitors per race through the picturesque villages of Chale, Chale Green, and Kingston. Racers are expected to achieve speeds of approximately 150mph through Kingston and Shorwell before making their way towards Brighstone. A critical left turn towards Grange Chine will precede a final left turn back onto Military Road for a blistering five-mile blast, where riders are anticipated to hit speeds in excess of 200mph, showcasing the raw power and speed of these machines.

Each lap of the circuit is projected to take around eight minutes to complete, with individual races comprising between three to five laps, depending on the specific class of motorcycle. While the inaugural event in Year 1 will not feature sidecar action, there are hopeful plans for a demonstration run to prove its viability for inclusion in future years, further expanding the appeal and variety of the racing program.

Strict Safety Measures and Operational Details

The implementation of the Diamond Races has only recently become possible thanks to a crucial change in the law allowing for the closure of public roads for motorsport events. Safety is paramount, and extensive measures are being put in place to ensure the well-being of riders, marshals, and spectators alike. Practice runs will take place on Wednesday and Thursday between 09:15 and 15:15, with roads opening for short periods at selected points to minimise disruption. Friday will serve as a rest day, or an alternative race day if needed, before the main racing action commences on Saturday, with road closures in effect between 09:30 and 17:30.

To create a semi-permanent race course of the highest safety standards, significant infrastructure modifications are underway. Approximately 2,500 white lines and hundreds of manholes will be treated with anti-slip coatings, and 1,050 cat's eyes are set to be removed from the roads to prevent hazards. Furthermore, a number of telegraph poles will be relocated, alongside the implementation of various other safety enhancements. Around 250 trained marshals will be strategically positioned at 80 points across the track, ensuring a constant line-of-sight approach to safety. The entire race meeting will be conducted under the stringent event regulations stipulated by the sport's governing body, the ACU (Auto Cycle Union).

Spectator Experience and Accessibility

Spectators are a crucial part of the atmosphere, and the Diamond Races aims to provide an exceptional experience. Ticketed race villages will be established in several key locations around the course, offering prime viewing spots and a vibrant atmosphere. Pop-up campsites are also expected to cater to visitors seeking accommodation close to the action. In other areas of the track, spectators will have the freedom to move around, provided they adhere to the strict safety measures in place. It is important to note that during live racing, road closures will prevent motorists and pedestrians from accessing the track, meaning temporary access restrictions to properties along the course will be in force.

The exact location for the Event HQ, pits, and scrutineering areas is still being finalised, with three potential sites currently under consideration. Diamond Races is actively collaborating with local firm BCM to secure access to suitable land by working closely with landowners, ensuring seamless logistical operations for all participants and teams.

Support and Future Vision

The Isle of Wight Council has thrown its full support behind this major motorsport event. Councillor Dave Stewart, Leader of the Isle of Wight Council, expressed his excitement, noting the years of behind-the-scenes work to assess the feasibility of such a race. He highlighted the council's commitment to expanding the island's economy and its belief that the event will thrill local enthusiasts while attracting visitors from the mainland and Northern Europe, thereby extending the island's tourist season and providing a vital economic boost in the final quarter of the year. Both the council and organisers are prioritising event safety and are committed to promoting safe motorcycling on the island year-round.

Paul Sandford, CEO and Co-Founder of the Diamond Races, an Isle of Wight local himself, conveyed his immense excitement at welcoming motorsport fans globally to the island. He described the Diamond Races as the culmination of years of hard work and planning, emphasising the dedication to delivering a spectacular event that is expected to become a regular fixture in the island's tourist season, truly putting the Isle of Wight on the international motorcycle road racing map. Beyond the professional races, there will also be a mass participation event, allowing motorcyclists to experience the thrill of the closed, controlled roads, led by renowned road riders, further promoting road safety and the spirit of motorcycling.

The event will have a strong digital emphasis, with plans for a special app, live streaming of the races, and readily available telemetry information, ensuring fans worldwide can follow the action. While the final race date is still pending confirmation, dependent on the end of the British Superbike championship in 2021, and TV coverage negotiations are ongoing, the anticipation for this groundbreaking event continues to build.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Diamond Races

Here are some common questions prospective attendees and enthusiasts might have about the Isle of Wight Diamond Races:

When will the Isle of Wight Diamond Races take place?

The Diamond Races is scheduled for October 2021. The specific final race date is yet to be confirmed and will depend on the British Superbike championship calendar for that year.

How long is the race circuit?

The closed-road circuit for the Diamond Races is 12.4 miles long, weaving through several villages and featuring a significant stretch of the Military Road.

What speeds can be expected during the race?

Riders are expected to reach speeds of up to 210mph on certain fast sections of the course, with speeds around 150mph through villages like Kingston and Shorwell, and over 200mph on the Military Road stretch.

Can spectators attend the event?

Yes, spectators are welcome! There will be ticketed race villages established at various locations, and pop-up campsites are also expected. In other areas, spectators can freely access designated viewing points, adhering to all safety measures.

How will road closures affect local residents and visitors?

Public roads forming the circuit will be closed during practice days (Wednesday and Thursday, 09:15-15:15) and on race day (Saturday, 09:30-17:30). Roads will open for short periods at selected points during practice days. Access to properties within the circuit will be temporarily prevented during live racing.

What safety measures are being put in place?

Extensive safety measures include anti-slip treatment for white lines and manholes, removal of cat's eyes, relocation of telegraph poles, and the deployment of 250 trained marshals at 80 points. The event will be run under strict ACU regulations, with a strong emphasis on year-round road safety.

What is the expected economic impact of the Diamond Races?

The event is projected to attract 15,000 visitors in its first year, growing to 50,000 in subsequent years. This influx is expected to provide a significant economic boost to the Isle of Wight, extending the tourist season and creating jobs, similar to the positive impact of the Isle of Man TT.

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