Ian Hutchinson to make Isle of Man TT comeback after stroke

The 16-time TT winner was forced to sit on the sidelines in 2023 having suffered a stroke before the start of the season. Although he made a full recovery and was back training within a matter of weeks, the ACU (motorcycle racing’s governing body) protocols meant that he was unable to race for 12 months. Although he could not race, ‘Hutchy’ was still involved in the TT, taking on an analyst role for the TT+ live coverage.

Sitting fourth in the list of all-time TT winners, Hutchinson’s return to Padgett’s Hondas will see him compete in the Superstock, Superbike and Senior TT races on a CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, as well as aboard a new CBR600RR in the two Supersport races.

The ‘Bingley Bullet’, as he is affectionately known, is the only competitor to have ever won five races in a week around the TT course, winning all solo races but the inaugural TT Zero in 2010. The partnership was rekindled in 2018 when Hutchinson rode for the team in the Supersport category, but 2024 will mark the first time he has entered all classes in Padgett’s colours since his record-breaking week.

“I’m really pleased to be back with Clive and the team,” said Hutchinson, who has appeared at both the Festival of Speed presented by Mastercard and Revival in recent years. “I think that the way that I work and the team works just fits right."

"Clive puts together a bike you know you can get on and ride fast straightaway. With injuries, COVID and missing last year, I don’t feel as though I’ve had a good run at the TT since 2017 and so it’s ideal to be with the team that can let me get the laps which is what I need.”

Padgett’s Team Principal Clive Padgett has always stated his pride at how much of a family feel his team has, across all members from riders to mechanics, and was delighted to welcome Hutchinson back into the garage.

“We’ve a long, enjoyable and highly successful relationship that goes back many, many years and it’s an honour to be back working together again across all the classes,” said Padgett.

“He’s had one hell of a journey since that incredible year in 2010, but there is no denying the man’s determination and I don’t think you can ever rule him out of getting a top finish. I truly believe in him but regardless of the results, I think having him back with the team is just a fantastic story for the sport and for the TT.”

Hutchinson’s appointment fills the gap in the team left by Davey Todd, who amicably split with the Batley-based outfit in August of 2023 to move across to the Milwaukee BMW by TAS Racing squad for the 2024 season.

Images courtesy of IOMTT