Exclusive: TTXGP responds to FIM actions

EARLIER THIS WEEK the FIM announced cash incentives for teams signing up for the organisation's 2010 zero-emission race calendar; a move seen by many as a way of bribing competitors away from the rival TTXGP race series.

The organisation's actions have increased the feud between the FIM and the founders of zero-emission road racing, TTXGP.

This afternoon, Visordown spoke with TTXGP officials, putting five questions that matter to the team responsible for the unmitigated success of the inaugural TTXGP, which took place on the Isle of Man during 2009 TT fortnight:

1. What does TTXGP believe the real reasons are behind the FIM's decision to
launch a rival zero emission race series?

- You would have to ask them. We can't comment on FIM's motivations. We are
focused on developing the teams, the sport and the industry for the benefit
of all involved. The FIM has taken a different approach, but we move forward
and build on what was started in 2009 and developing the TTXGP eco-system.

2. If the FIM were acting in the best interest of alternate powered
motorcycle sport, what should they have done?

- At the core of our values is the theme "Be Part of It". It has driven our
approach to be inclusive and build partnerships, the TTXGP eco-system. The
rules wiki (wiki.egrandprix.com) is tangible example of the ideals we are
striving to fulfil.
In a new era of motorsports, we feel partnerships are the key to the success
of our industry, our teams and our partners. We can only succeed if we stand
together as one body with single-minded focus on the success of zero carbon
motorsport.

3. The FIM's latest move, offering riders cash incentives to join their
ePower race series, appears to be nothing short of bribery. Does TTXGP
agree?

- You would have to ask FIM. We have no comment.

4. Reports of infighting within the FIM and the Isle of Man Government over
the decision to drop TTXGP in favour of the FIM's home-brewed 2010 Zero TT
have come at a time when clean emission racing needs the best start
possible. Does TTXGP believe the FIM's actions will be detrimental to the
future of clean emission racing?

- It is a matter of extreme regret that the headlines have been dominated by
the politics rather than by the teams or the technology who are the real
heroes in starting the next generation of motorsports. We feel the Isle of
Man TT/FIM decisions have not been positive for an infant sport and
industry. However both these organisations are over 100 years old, so the
decision to act in the manner they have is understandable.

TTXGP - The eGrandPrix is dedicated solely to the success of zero-carbon
motorsport. We welcome all those who wish to be part of the larger,
inclusive TTXGP eco-system characterised by a fresh approach, innovation and
the ability to think/act differently.

5. Who does TTXGP believe to be behind the decisions made by the FIM and the
Isle of Man Government. What are their motives?

- The motivation for Isle of Man TT/FIM in procuring our intellectual
property and our investment in creating 2009, is something for them to
answer. TTXGP has been and remains open to developing the partnerships we
need to collectively succeed. We can only confirm that none of the reasons
so far publically suggested by the Isle of Man TT/FIM are real.

However we go forward from here and look forward to a great 2010. We are
working on some major deals for the series that we will be announcing soon.
These will demonstrate our continued leadership in this space and the value
teams will gain from being part of the TTXGP eco-system. Value that will
outlast this season and help them not just be better racers but also better
businesses.