By Made official yesterday, the imposed 2027 Sidecar TT regulations, has drawn strong critique from teams, drivers, and passengers.
Sportbike power-unit implementation, electronics alterations, finance permutations, dropping of 600cc power-units, are amongst the contentious topics for vastly experienced, TT rostrum finishing competitors.
TT 2025 podium finisher x2, tenth speediest driver in TT Races history, Lee Crawford, outlined his views via a thorough statement on Facebook.
“Following the publication of the 2027 Isle of Man TT Sidecar Technical Regulations, Team ARC wishes to formally express its concerns regarding the significant changes being introduced to the sidecar technical regulations with immediate effect.
We recognise that consultation has taken place regarding the future of the regulations. However, the direction now being implemented, specifically the move to a BSB Sportbike-derived engine formula and controlled electronics package, was neither explored as a proposed direction during that consultation nor recommended by any competitor, to our understanding.
The decision represents a fundamental departure from the established technical formula under which existing competitors have invested considerable time, expertise and financial resources.
The removal of the existing 600cc engine formula, combined with the introduction of homologated engine platforms, controlled electronics, prescribed wiring architecture and associated restrictions, has potentially far-reaching consequences for established teams.
This is not simply a change of engine. It potentially requires substantial redesign and replacement of existing engine installations, exhaust systems, airboxes, engine mounts, electronics and associated components.
We are also concerned about the immediate implementation of these regulations and the absence of a reasonable transition period for competitors who have invested in machinery built around the existing rules.”
The statement continues:
“Of particular interest is the approach being taken by other major road-racing events. The Southern 100, for example, is prepared to continue with the established 2025 technical regulations, incorporating relatively minor amendments primarily relating to safety.
This demonstrates that the existing formula can continue to provide a basis for competitive sidecar racing while allowing appropriate safety improvements.
We therefore believe there are legitimate questions that need to be answered:
* Why has such a fundamental change been introduced when it was not proposed or recommended by competitors during consultation?
* What consideration has been given to the financial implications for existing teams?
* Why has no reasonable transition period been provided?
* What consideration has been given to maintaining consistency across the major road-racing championships?
* What representation have existing competitors had in the final decision-making process?
Team ARC is not opposed to the evolution or improvement of sidecar racing. We fully recognise the importance of safety, development and the long-term future of the sport.
However, meaningful change must involve the people who compete, invest and contribute to that future.
We believe competitors deserve transparency, meaningful representation and an opportunity to have their concerns properly considered before fundamental changes of this magnitude are imposed.
We respectfully call upon the organisers to reconsider the immediate implementation of these regulations and engage in further meaningful discussions with the existing competitors and teams.
The future of sidecar racing should be developed with its competitors, not simply decided for them.
For Clarification and Transparency Purposes we will not be Competing at the event or participating in any of the changes that are required to compete in the event, but we are Working together with the Southern 100 to help find and support a sustainable path for the future.”
Will the powers that-be listen to the feedback? I and I am sure, endless others hope the unique, thrilling spectacle of three-wheeling action on IOM shores continues but I fear without adequate solutions, greater cohesive discussions between organisers and teams, that the future trajectory is extremely rocky.
Statement via Lee Crawford Facebook page.
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
