Maria Costello withdrawn from TT races

Decision made under instruction of chief medical officer

Maria Costello MBE has been withdrawn from this year's TT races.

Organisers have confirmed it follows instruction from the chief medical officer after she was involved in an incident on the opening day of qualifying on 29 May.

The rider had been due to compete on Galgorm/FHO machines in both the supertwin and sidecar classes.

TT organisers are wishing Costello a speedy recovery - she will now join the presenting team on TT+.

Following the announcement Costello said:

"Physically I feel absolutely fine in myself but, quite rightly, the medical team here take any possible head injury very seriously.

“I’m hugely disappointed to miss out on what is the biggest event of my season, but I’ll be back next year.

"It takes a massive amount of effort and support to get here, something that I couldn’t do without the backing of my amazing team and sponsors, but they’ve been incredibly supportive through this very unfortunate situation.

“I’ll stay on and enjoy the sunshine and the racing, and I’m looking forward to helping out on the TV coverage even more.

"I also want to wish Colin the very best for rest of the TT, having jumped in the chair alongside Alan Founds. I’ll be cheering them on!”

Following an incident on the opening day of qualifying, @MariaCostello MBE has been withdrawn from competing at this year’s Isle of Man TT Races under the instruction of the Chief Medical Officer. pic.twitter.com/CNtlikfJ4V

— Isle of Man TT Races (@ttracesofficial) June 1, 2023