Azhar Hussain was instrumental in bringing the world’s first clean emissions motorcycle race to the island for the 2009 TT.

But amid an acrimonious split, he pulled out before the following year’s event, leaving the Manx government to organise the event itself. It was given a new name – TT Zero.

But TTXGP continues as an international series with races in seven countries and more than 30 teams worldwide taking to the track in 2011.

Mr Hussain said he was honoured to be awarded the MBE. He said: ‘It’s the first mainstream award for zero carbon motorsport, and given that we have only two seasons behind us, it symbolises the huge impact we have already made, as well as the enormous potential of the industry.

‘TTXGP has made a significant contribution to motorsport, and this honour from the Queen acknowledges it.

‘In truth the award belongs to the teams, suppliers, tracks, governments and many others who stand with TTXGP and believe we can all make a difference.

‘Competition not only provides great challenge and entertainment but also improves the breed; we hope that it will come to be seen as a milestone in bringing new transportation technology to the world beyond motorsports.’


At the time of the 2010 split, the Manx government claimed Mr Hussain had not been prepared to sacrifice a rival event in Paris during TT fortnight in order to be at the TT.

But the TTXGB founder insisted: ‘I can confirm the question of Paris or issues of financial packages were not factors in the decision-making and am disappointed that it is being suggested so. We remain surprised about the decision as we did everything possible to make this happen.’

The first clean emissions event at the TT was won by Chris Heath and the Electric Motorsport team. The fastest lap went to Rob Barber and Team Agni, who recorded 87.434mph.