GARY MCCOY TO MAKE LONG-AWAITED DEBUT AT 2026 ISLE OF MAN TT
For his debut, McCoy will ride BMW machinery as he lines up for both RL360 Superstock TT races while also competing in the Monster Energy Supersport TT races aboard a next-generation Suzuki 750, aiming to maximise mileage across practice and race week as he builds experience and confidence around the Mountain Course.
McCoy had been scheduled to make his first appearance at the Isle of Man TT in 2025 before a serious accident at the North West 200 ruled him out of the event and the remainder of his season. Now fully recovered, the Northern Irish rider will arrive ready to begin his newcomer campaign, this follows several years of preparation and work behind the scenes, with mentoring, course familiarisation, and practical guidance delivered by Isle of Man TT Rider Liaison Officers.
Operating as a close-knit, family-run outfit, Madbros Racing bring a measured and long-term approach to their first TT campaign together. Preparation has centred on ensuring McCoy returns fully fit, with the focus firmly on learning the course and establishing a strong foundation for future TT appearances.
Now fully recovered, Gary McCoy is ready to start his newcomer campaign.
McCoy, from Cookstown in County Tyrone, is regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s emerging road racing prospects. Although his planned TT debut was halted after his incident during the North West 200, he made a successful competitive return later in the season at the Sunflower Trophy races at Bishopscourt, confirming his recovery ahead of renewed TT preparations.
Despite initially considering the Manx Grand Prix route, McCoy opted to move directly into the Isle of Man TT newcomer programme following discussions with TT organisers, allowing him to approach his first year on the Mountain Course with a clear emphasis on development rather than expectation.
Gary McCoy in action for Madbros Racing during road racing competition ahead of his Isle of Man TT newcomer campaign.
McCoy stated: “I’m excited to finally get the opportunity to ride the TT. Missing last year was difficult after putting so much work into getting there, but the priority was getting fully recovered and back racing. The aim this year is to learn as much as possible, gain experience and enjoy the whole TT journey without any pressure.”
McCoy’s long-awaited debut marks a significant milestone in his career, bringing the Northern Irish newcomer to the TT paddock with the ambition to establish himself on the Mountain Course in the years ahead.
