Motorcycle Racing and Neo-Tribes at the Isle of Man

The motorcycle road races held annually on the Isle of Man provide a suitable case for investigating a specific event, its spectators and its facilitators. Racing at the Isle of Man is labelled madness, yet participating and spectating are also reported to be about camaraderie, family and community experiences. The research is based upon observations and qualitative interviews with participants and facilitators of the Manx GP and Classic TT races. The research explores why motorcycle enthusiasts from all over the world make the pilgrimage to the Isle of Man to be part of the Isle of Man motor sport culture. It also considers whether and to what extent the commercial, cultural and recreational success of the event is based upon neo-tribal rituals.