Tom Birchall, the most successful sidecar co-driver in the history of the Isle of Man TT, has announced his retirement from racing. Together with his older brother Ben, he formed an unbeatable team that dominated sidecar racing over the last ten years.
Tom and Ben Birchall took no less than 14 TT race wins in their impressive career. They have been an unstoppable force on three wheels, winning every race they have finished since 2013 with just three retirements. Their unparalleled talent and dedication led to several speed records on the TT circuit, including first laps of 117, 118, 119 and 120 mph in the sidecar class.
A milestone in history:
Most notably, they set their record lap of 120.645 mph at the TT in the 100th anniversary year of sidecar racing, setting a new race record at the same time.
Successes outside the Isle of Man:
Away from the TT circuit, Tom Birchall has also celebrated great success at international level. He is a four-time sidecar world champion and British champion.
Statement of retirement from Tom Birchall:
Tom Birchall commented on his decision, “It wasn’t an easy decision to make, but after 20 years in sidecars and ten years since our first TT win, the timing feels right. The TT has always been the biggest thing for me, but this is the start of a new chapter in my life. Thanks to everyone, especially the marshals, the medical staff and the fantastic TT fans.”
Comment from Ben Birchall:
Ben Birchall emphasized the importance of his brother to his career, “What he has achieved is incredible. None of this would have been possible without Tom. We’ve made history together, which makes it even more special.”
Looking to the future:
Ben Birchall confirmed that he will line up with a new co-driver in 2024 to break the record for the most TT wins in the sidecar class. The announcement of his new co-driver is expected in the new year.
