Health takes priority
The Isle of Man TT will take place in May 2023, but unfortunately one regular race participant will be missing this year. Ian Hutchinson, a 16-time TT winner, suffered a stroke while riding his bike during pre-season training in Spain. As a result, his racing license has been revoked for 12 months in accordance with current sporting rules.
Official retirement announcement
Hutchinson’s team, TAS Racing, announced its official retirement on March 29, 2023. This was to be Hutchinson’s second TT season with the renowned Northern Irish racing team. Although no one expected this news, everyone involved is moving forward with alternative plans for the racing season.
“Ian’s day-to-day health is of paramount importance to all involved and while he is making a remarkable recovery, already given the all clear to drive his car – rules are rules and we must respect them. Ian is obviously bitterly disappointed after putting in the hard yards over the winter months, spinning many laps on a TAS Racing prepared Milwaukee BMW M 1000 RR Superstock specification machine in Spain”
Hutchinson remains loyal to the TT
Hutchinson will not be racing, but it doesn’t mean he will avoid the event completely. Both team sponsor Milwaukee and Hutchy will be present on the island throughout the event. The renowned racer will be signing autographs, spending time with fans and representing both TAS Racing and the Milwaukee brand.
Otherwise, he will appear at the 2023 North West 200 leading up to the race as part of Milwaukee BMW’s preparations for this important road race.
“First and foremost our concerns are with Ian and we look forward to supporting him on his road to making a full recovery. Clearly we are disappointed to miss our first IOMTT in 23 years – aside from the Covid years of course. Everything was in place for this year’s event together with Milwaukee and our other valued partners. We now look forward to finalizing our plans for the NW200 and another BSB season” Milwaukee BMW Team Principal Philip Neill said in a statement.
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