Irish star Glenn Irwin will make his Isle of Man TT debut in 2020 after signing a deal to ride with Honda on the roads and in British Superbikes next season.
Irwin has already tasted success at Macau and the North West 200, and will be the next high-profile newcomer to the island in 2020. He will partner Davey Todd in the team who moves from Padgett’s to the main factory squad.
“I’m enjoying doing the homework for the TT and learning it, there’s no expectations whatsoever, we’re not going there to win in year one, the place requires a lot of respect and time and that’s what we’ll give it,” said Irwin.
It’s a privilege to make my debut there on the new Fireblade as a lot of people will be wanting to see it in action, so I have to prepare the best I can for the most professional and safe job in my first year.”
Todd has continued to impress since embarking on his first full road-race campaign in 2018. A year earlier he made his debut at the Ulster Grand Prix, where he placed second in the Dundrod 150 National race.
Consistency was key at the North West 200 where he was crowned top newcomer, but it was at the TT where the 24-year-old really made his mark, lapping the Mountain Circuit at 127.890mph and becoming the second fastest newcomer in the history of the event.
In his second year in road racing, Davey secured his maiden North West 200 win in the Supersport class and also came third in the Superstock race. Meanwhile at the TT he continued to learn the circuit and completed race week with five top-ten finishes. Away from road racing he has enjoyed time in the National Superstock 600 Championship, finishing sixth overall in 2016.
“I am really excited to sign for Honda Racing for the 2020 season. We all know Honda’s history and I grew up watching the factory team and that’s what got me into racing, and it’s been a lifelong dream to ride for Honda,” said Todd.
“The 2020 Fireblade looks incredible and after seeing it I am more excited that I was before - if that’s even possible! I also want to thank Havier and Honda Racing for giving me this opportunity on the roads and also in the National Superstock 1000 Championship, having that belief in me really means a lot and I can’t wait to get started.”
