Qualifying for returning Classic TT gets under way

The Classic TT is back for the first time since 2019

Qualifying for the 2025 Classic TT has begun as the event returns to the Isle of Man for the first time since 2019.

Roads around the 37.7 (61km) Mountain Course closed at 18:00 BST ahead of the opening session for all classes.

It marks the return of the TT brand to the August festival after it was scrapped by the government when racing returned following the coronavirus pandemic.

The Classic TT, which sees a host of TT stars take to the course on vintage machines, follows three days of qualifying for the Manx Grand Prix.

Wednesday's schedule

18:30 - Formula 1 Classic / Lightweight Classic

19:20 - Lightweight Classic / Historic Senior / Historic Junior

The Classic TT was first introduced in 2013 and ran until racing was put on a hiatus for two years due to border closures during the pandemic.

When racing returned in 2022, the classic classes were run under the banner of the Manx Grand Prix in a truncated nine-day event.

The reintroduction of the TT branding has also seen event's format extended back to 13 days.

The Department for Enterprise previously said the TT brand was being brought back as part of a three-year move to boost visitor numbers to the island.

Roads around the course must reopen no later than 21:00.

The 2025 Manx Grand Prix and Classic TT events run until 29 August.