International Historic Racing Organisation
About IHRO
Since 1985, IHRO has brought authentic Grand Prix motorcycles, fierce competition and the spirit of the Continental Circus to race circuits across Europe.
About IHRO
Born from a shared passion for proper classic racing.
The International Historic Racing Organisation was proposed in 1985 by motorcycle journalist Alan Cathcart and a group of like-minded enthusiasts. The idea took shape after they had competed at Le Castellet in the south of France. Over the traditional post-race glass of wine, they began planning a European racing class for genuine period Grand Prix machines.
That conversation became IHRO. The organisation’s first race was held in 1986 as a support race to the French Grand Prix at Le Mans, beginning a racing story that continues today.
Our journey
From one idea to a European racing family.
The idea is born
Alan Cathcart and fellow enthusiasts formulate the concept of an international class for authentic classic Grand Prix motorcycles.
The first IHRO race
IHRO makes its racing debut at Le Mans, supporting the French Motorcycle Grand Prix.
A German breakthrough
At Schleiz, IHRO organises Germany’s first motorcycle meeting race for historic machines, opening the door to further German events.
From the IHRO archive
Decades of racing history.
Original photographs from the former IHRO website preserve the riders, motorcycles and international meetings that shaped the organisation.
Dutch TT – 350 race
Paul Ricard – 500 race
Donington Park
Cutts and Anderson – G50
Oulton Park – 500 race
Dutch TT paddockThe Continental Circus
Grand Prix racing as it once was.
IHRO was created as a modern Continental Circus for period racing motorcycles. In its early years the championship travelled throughout Europe, from Pergusa in Sicily to Linkoping in Sweden. In later years the calendar became more concentrated around central Europe and historic venues, while retaining appearances at major Grand Prix events.
What defines IHRO
Authenticity without losing the racing.
Age alone does not make a motorcycle eligible. IHRO is built around machines of a type that competed in period Grand Prix racing, prepared with respect for their era and raced as they were intended.
Period machines
Eligible motorcycles must represent types that raced in Grand Prix competition during the relevant historic period.
Period appearance
Fairings, seats and the overall presentation must remain faithful to the era. Modifications are period-correct, apart from permitted safety improvements.
Real racing
IHRO motorcycles use drum brakes front and rear, while high-quality riders ensure the competition remains fast, close and spectacular.
IHRO competitions and honours
Celebrating results, effort and spirit.
IHRO’s annual awards recognise much more than finishing first. They honour the people, machines and attitude that keep historic racing alive.
Classic Racer Endeavour Award
Awarded to someone who has gone the extra mile. The recipient may be a rider, mechanic or sponsor: effort and contribution matter more than race victories. The winner receives an annual trophy and a replica to keep.
The IHRO Trophy
IHRO’s longest-standing award is an original trophy first awarded at Daytona in the 1950s. It recognises the person who best displayed the IHRO Spirit during the season. The recipient need not be a rider or race winner. It is traditionally presented at Schleiz.
The A3R Trophy
Created in memory of Ardrie Van Balen, an IHRO supporter from the beginning and a talented rider who later prepared Seeley Goldstars for Ton Groot. It is awarded to the fastest qualifying Goldstar-engined machine at Schleiz.
The IHRO family
Serious racing. Genuine camaraderie.
From the outset, the social side has been essential to IHRO. Gatherings and barbecues recreate the atmosphere of the old Continental Circus. On track the racing is committed; in the paddock competitors help one another with parts, knowledge and practical support.
World champions and famous riders have joined IHRO over the years, but the organisation has always been sustained by the wider community of dedicated classic racers, mechanics, organisers and supporters.
Become part of the story.
Discover the calendar, read the regulations or contact the IHRO team.