Road Racing Legend Ian Hutchinson Set for Grand Comeback
Ian Hutchinson, a household name in road racing, is poised to make a remarkable comeback at the 2024 Isle of Man TT, partnering with the Padgett’s Honda team, as reported by Visordown on February 20, 2023.
After a year-long hiatus, Hutchinson will reunite with the team that catapulted him to a historic five-solo TT win in 2010. The 44-year-old’s return follows a stroke early in 2023, which led to a 12-month revocation of his racing license by the ACU.
Hutchinson is set to compete in both 1,000cc classes, including Superstock and Superbike (including the Senior TT), on the updated 2024 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, as well as the Supersport class on the Honda CBR600RR.
“I’m really pleased to be back with Clive and the team. 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.” – Ian Hutchinson
This move marks a sort of role reversal, as Davey Todd makes the opposite switch, leaving Padgett’s to join TAS Racing for 2024. Hutchinson acknowledged that he hasn’t had a strong run at the TT since 2017, citing injuries and COVID-19 as obstacles.
However, with the Padgett’s team, he’s confident of getting the necessary laps to make a successful comeback. The team has already begun testing in Spain, with more sessions planned for Portugal and Spain in the coming weeks.
Clive Padgett, Team Principal of Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles, expressed his delight at having Hutchinson back on board, saying, “We’re absolutely delighted to have Ian back into the Padgett’s racing family. 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.”
As road racing news goes, this is a significant development, and fans of the sport are eagerly anticipating Hutchinson’s return to the iconic Isle of Man TT. With his determination and experience, he’s certainly a top contender for a strong finish.
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