Following the decision to suspend the modern Sidecar class from the 2026 Southern 100 Races, the Southern 100 Club has announced an exciting new contingency plan aimed at ensuring three-wheeled racing remains a core part of this July’s event.
In collaboration with competitors and technical officials, the Club is working to introduce a Classic Sidecar class to the main July programme.
The proposed races will run strictly under the established Pre-TT Classic Road Races technical regulations. Because these traditional machines do not utilise the complex prototype aerodynamic features or flat-floor designs of their modern counterparts, they are entirely unaffected by the current regulatory pause affecting the modern class.
Funding
In an extraordinary show of support, an anonymous benefactor has offered to fully fund the entry fees for all Classic Sidecar teams who enter and attend the 2026 Southern 100.
Clerk of the Course, Giles Olley, said: “We were deeply saddened to have to pause the modern sidecar class this year, but as organisers, we must look forward.
“The idea to bring the Classics into the July event came directly from discussions within the paddock and it is a fantastic solution. Thanks to the incredible generosity of a private benefactor covering all entry fees, we are removing the financial barrier for teams.
“The message from the Club is clear: if the teams enter and we can build a viable grid, the races will go ahead. Newcomers to the event especially are very welcome.”
The initiative is strictly dependent on grid numbers. Interested teams should contact the Race Office immediately. The Club reaffirmed its commitment to the modern class, aiming for a return in 2027 following a collaborative regulatory review.