Preparation for the 2026 Isle of Man TT (scheduled for May 25 – June 6) is officially in high gear. Here is the latest news as of late January 2026:
Major Schedule & Regulation Changes
The organizers have introduced a significantly revamped schedule to prevent the kind of weather-related disruptions seen in 2025.
- The “Sportbike TT” Debuts: The Supertwin class has been officially rebranded as the Sportbike TT. New regulations now allow sportbike-specification machines (like the Suzuki GSX-8R, Triumph Daytona 660, and Yamaha R7) to compete alongside the traditional high-tuned 650cc twins.
- Increased Contingency: The schedule now includes three rest days (instead of two), and the number of qualifying sessions has increased to seven. This provides a “buffer” to move races around if weather conditions turn sour.
- Class Pairing: In a move to reduce physical strain on solo riders, Superstock races are now paired with Sidecar races, while Supersport races will run on the same days as the Sportbike class.
Rider & Team Movements
- Conor Cummins: The local legend has launched his own team, Conrod Motorsport, for the 2026 season.
- Jamie Coward: He will lead the first-ever TT campaign for Rapid Honda, contesting six races.
- Honda Racing UK: Confirmed that veterans John McGuinness MBE and Dean Harrison will continue with the factory team for 2026.
- 8TEN Racing: Peter Hickman and Davey Todd are returning for their second season with the team, racing BMW machinery.
- Retirement: Ten-time winner Ian Lougher has officially retired from racing after a legendary career spanning four decades.
Key Dates & Events
- Entries: Competitor entries for the main TT are open until January 30, 2026.
- Pre-TT Classic: Entries just opened (Jan 26) for the Billown Course races, which take place from May 22–24. A new race for 400cc machines (pre-1994) has been added to the bill.
- John McGuinness Tribute: The 2026 Classic TT (in August) will feature a special tribute and parade lap to celebrate McGuinness’s 30-year TT career.
- Official Charity: The Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS) has been named the official charity partner for 2026, with DJ and team owner Carl Cox serving as an ambassador.
Official Isle of Man TT Portals
- Official TT 2026 Schedule & News The definitive source for the new 2026 race calendar, rest days, and the rebranding of the Sportbike class.
- 2026 Classic TT Updates Information on the Junior 600 and Ultra Lightweight races, plus details on the John McGuinness 30-year career tribute.
- Official TT Schedule Page A day-by-day breakdown of qualifying and race times for the 2026 event.
Rider & Team News
- Conor Cummins & Conrod Motorsport Official announcement of Conor’s new team for the Superstock races.
- Jamie Coward Signs with Rapid Honda A detailed report from Crash.net regarding Jamie Coward’s move to the new Honda-backed effort for 2026.
Technical & Regulation Analysis
- New Sportbike Class RegulationsVisordown’s breakdown of how the new Sportbike spec bikes (like the R7 and GSX-8R) will fit into the grid.
- McNews Australia – Next Gen Regulations A technical look at the transition of the Supersport class toward Next Generation regulations for 2026.
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