Isle of Man TT Celebrates Joey Dunlop with Moving Exhibition

A new exhibition dedicated to the legendary motorcycle racer Joey Dunlop has opened its doors at the Mercury Club during the Isle of Man TT race week. This moving tribute features an impressive collection of memorabilia, including Dunlop’s personal toolbox and the machines he rode in his final TT race. The exhibition is accessible to the public at no charge until the end of race week, situated adjacent to the winners’ enclosure by the TT Grandstand.

The exhibition was officially inaugurated on the Wednesday of qualifying week, attracting over 100 attendees, including riders, officials, and notable guests such as the Lieutenant Governor and Lady Philippa. Among those present was John McGuinness MBE, a close rival of Dunlop in terms of overall TT wins, who expressed his emotions regarding his late teammate. “I can’t deny that I’ve found it quite emotional looking at some of the images and items in the exhibition. It’s amazing,” said McGuinness, a 23-time TT winner. He contributed to the display by providing a pair of his leathers from the 2000 Formula One race, where he shared the podium with Dunlop, who finished in third place alongside runner-up Michael Rutter.

In a heartfelt tribute, Michael Dunlop MBE, Joey’s nephew, has crafted a replica of the Honda 1000cc SP1, which his uncle rode to victory. McGuinness also provided the fairing from Dunlop’s bike, adorned in Vimto colors, used in the Senior race—Joey’s last TT before his tragic passing in Estonia at the age of 48. Michael Dunlop is scheduled to ride this replica bike in a tribute lap next Friday, honoring his uncle’s legacy.

The exhibition’s opening also featured notable figures from both past and present eras, including riders Eddie Laycock, Ian Lougher, and Dave Leach, as well as contemporary racers Dean Harrison, Nathan Harrison, and Horst Saiger. Former ‘Minister for Fun’ of the Isle of Man, David Cretney, along with photographer Peter Duke, also paid their respects to one of the most beloved and successful road racers in history.

The exhibition serves not only as a celebration of Dunlop’s remarkable career but also as a poignant reminder of his impact on the sport and the community. It invites fans and newcomers alike to reflect on the legacy of a rider who remains an enduring symbol of excellence and passion in motorcycle racing.