Michael Rutter, seven-time winner of the Isle of Man TT, has confirmed that he will be taking part in the Tourist Trophy again in 2025 - but in a significantly reduced form. The 52-year-old Briton will compete exclusively in the Supertwin class, riding a Yamaha R7. As Team Principal of the Bathams Racing Team, Rutter wants to focus more on organizing and supporting his riders in future instead of competing in several classes himself.
91 TT starts – one of the most experienced active riders
With 91 race starts on the Isle of Man to date, Rutter is one of the most experienced riders in the Tourist Trophy field. For many years, he was the figurehead of the Bathams Racing Team, which he will continue to lead in 2025. In addition to his involvement in the Supertwin class, he will also be looking after his new rider Craig Neve, who will be competing for Bathams Racing in both the TT and the British Superbike Championship (BSB) in 2025.
Last TT appearance with Superbike and Supertwin – top ten results
Rutter had already limited his participation in the 2024 Tourist Trophy. At that time, he competed in both the Superbike and Supertwin classes. He underlined his class with top ten finishes in the prestigious Superbike and Senior races, even if it was only enough for 13th place in the second race in the Supertwin category.
Farewell to the Superbike class: reason before passion
Despite his enduring passion for the high-speed circuit around the Mountain Course, Rutter has decided not to compete in the 1000cc category in future. In a statement, he explained:
“Standing on the grid of a Superbike race at the TT is the ultimate feeling – there’s simply nothing better than doing six laps around the Mountain Course. But although I was over the moon with a couple of top ten finishes last year, I knew it was time to stop and look at the bigger picture.”
He added:
“Leading a team at the highest level requires one hundred percent commitment. Racing in all classes myself, I don’t have the energy to give Craig Neve the support he deserves. My BMW last year was strong enough to win, but I’m not getting any younger or faster. That’s why it’s the right time to vacate my seat and give another rider the chance.”
Bathams Racing in the BSB and at the TT 2025
In addition to the TT program, Bathams Racing will also be represented in the British Superbike Championship in 2025. Rutter will remain active as team principal in both series. According to the team, the Yamaha R7 for the Supertwin class has already been prepared so that Rutter can concentrate on his solo efforts while Neve rides the larger machines.
Outlook: Experience meets realignment
With his partial retirement from the Superbike class, Michael Rutter is opening a new chapter – not as a retirement, but as a strategic realignment. As team boss and mentor, he remains closely associated with the Tourist Trophy and road racing, while at the same time opening doors for the development of younger talents such as Craig Neve.
