Isle of Man TT legend John McGuinness has had his motorcycling achievements recognised having been made a Member of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2021 New Year’s Honours List.
McGuinness joins a select group of motorcyclists to be recognised in such a manner and follows in the footsteps of, among others, John Surtees, Gary Hocking, Jim Redman, Mike Hailwood, Phil Read, Barry Sheene, Joey Dunlop, Carl Fogarty, Maria Costello, and, the most recent recipient of the MBE, Jonathan Rea.
“I’m thoroughly humbled to receive an MBE and when I started racing all those years ago, never in a million years did I think I’d go on to achieve the success that I have let alone be recognised and honoured by the Queen,” said McGuinness.
“When you look at the previous motorcyclists to have received an MBE, it’s a very select group of riders who are both multiple world champions and legends of the sport so to be recognised in the same way as them now is something I’m extremely proud of.
It doesn’t happen very often in our sport so it’s an incredibly special moment for me and my family and even though I received the letter informing me of the award some time ago, I’m still finding it hard to believe so it’ll probably be a while before it properly sinks in.”
A factory rider for both Yamaha and Honda, the latter seeing the majority of his success, McGuinness can also count a British Superbike Championship podium for Kawasaki amongst his glittering success while, off the track, he’s been a regular supporter of various charities over the years, attending countless events up and down the country to help raise funds for those less fortunate.
“Obviously, the Isle of Man TT and my 23 wins there are what people most associate me with but I’ve also been fortunate to achieve success elsewhere and I’m proud of all my achievements whether it’s the TT, my other road racing wins, being British Champion or taking a British Superbike Championship podium.
“I’ve had a lot of support over the years from a lot of people, particularly my family who have been with me all the way, and also my sponsors and fans and I’m extremely grateful for all of that support.
“I’ve always tried to give something back to the sport as well so for both myself and motorcycling to be recognised in the New Year’s Honours List is a truly special day.”
