Future of Ulster Grand Prix in doubt over "major financial crisis"
Urgent review under way to keep world's fastest road race on track
The Ulster Grand Prix - the world's fastest road race event - is under threat.
Organisers admit they are struggling to fund next year's spectacle at Dundrod.
Robert Graham, chairman of the Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club, warned that its future was in doubt.
“It is clear though, that in the absence of significant financial support, the Ulster Grand Prix is in real and imminent danger of disappearing from the road racing calendar, an outcome that would be a major blow for motorcycle sport in Northern Ireland," he said.
The Ulster Grand Prix attracts some of the best riders in the business - and is just three years short of its 100th anniversary.
Organisers revealed that an "urgent" review was under way and that they will make a final decision in the next few weeks.
In a statement, organisers said: "The 2019 Ulster Grand Prix race week began in a blaze of glory as Peter Hickman set a new lap record speed of 136.415mph that brought the ‘World’s Fastest Road Race’ title back to the Dundrod circuit.
"More fantastic racing was to follow but a severe weather warning forecast for Saturday’s main race day saw most fans decide to remain at home, resulting in perhaps the smallest crowd the event has ever witnessed.
"The huge loss of income, compounded by existing liabilities, has resulted in a major financial crisis for the organisers of the Ulster Grand Prix, the Dundrod and District Motorcycle Club.
"Over the past few months the Club has been trying to manage this difficult situation. A critical juncture has now been reached and a decision must be made as to whether or not the race will take place in 2020."