The 2025 Classic TT invites fans to relive the passion, drama, and triumph of one of the sport’s all-time greats. Through immersive experiences, exhibitions, and heartfelt tributes, we honour the man whose name is synonymous with TT greatness.
The year 2000 is immortalized in Isle of Man TT history. At the dawn of a new millennium, Joey Dunlop, already a living legend, delivered a performance for the ages. Racing a factory Honda SP1 in the Formula 1 TT, the Ballymoney icon defied rising competition and the passage of time to seize a victory that remains one of the Mountain Course’s most celebrated moments.
But Joey wasn’t done. That year, he completed a stunning hat-trick, adding 250cc and 125cc victories to his tally. With his 26th and final TT win, he closed the book on an extraordinary career, leaving a legacy that transcended mere statistics.
Now, 25 years later, the 2025 Classic TT invites fans to relive the passion, drama, and triumph of one of the sport’s all-time greats. Through immersive experiences, exhibitions, and heartfelt tributes, we honour the man whose name is synonymous with TT greatness.
Joey’s 2000 Formula 1 TT ride was the stuff of legend. Facing a new generation of rising stars – led by David Jefferies and John McGuinness – the 48-year-old Dunlop silenced doubters with a masterclass in skill, strategy, and sheer determination. Over six laps of the 37.73-mile circuit, he carved through the competition, crossing the line nearly 15 seconds ahead of Michael Rutter, with McGuinness rounding out the podium.
The 2025 Classic TT will reach its emotional pinnacle on Friday, 29th August, with a special demonstration lap paying homage to Joey’s final TT. His nephew, Michael Dunlop – now the most successful TT rider in history after breaking records in 2024 – will take to the Mountain Course aboard a replica of Joey’s 2000 factory Honda VTR SP1.
While Michael has forged his own legacy, this lap will be more than a tribute – it’s a bridge between two generations of Dunlop brilliance, a testament to a family that has defined TT history for decades.
From 20th – 29th August, fans can step into the world of Joey Dunlop through an exclusive pop-up exhibition. Original memorabilia from the Dunlop family collection – including Joey’s race leathers, helmets, and trophies – will be on display, telling the story of his unforgettable Formula 1 TT victory in 2000.
Adding extra insight into the rivalries and camaraderie that defined the era, the exhibition will also feature a number of personal keepsakes from John McGuinness and Michael Rutter, who finished second and third that day. This free-to-access exhibition, enriched with bespoke artwork and immersive storytelling, will transport fans back to a golden age of TT racing.
On Thursday, 29th August, the TT Grandstand Stage will host a special live edition of The TT Podcast, bringing the 2000 Formula 1 TT to life through the voices of those who lived it. Fans will hear from John McGuinness, Michael Rutter, key team members, commentators, and the Dunlop family as they unveil untold stories and behind-the-scenes moments of one of the TT’s most iconic races.
