A statement from the ‘TT Board’ revealed on Thursday the plan to fall into line with the rest of the MotoGP championship by hosting a grand prix weekend on the traditional days of Friday-Sunday.

“The decision to move the race to Sunday was made out of sheer necessity,” said the statement.

“In this competitive environment, the TT Assen can only hold its own by increasing the number of visitors.

“Moving the TT to Sunday is a better fit with the pattern of other events in racing.

“A top sporting event on a Sunday is more attractive than on a Saturday, and there is also more media exposure, which is something the TT will definitely benefit from.”

The TT Board added that the race will continue to occupy its late-June date, which “could be seen as an old tradition with a modern twist”.