This year’s TT welcomes an impressive line-up of first-timers, with over two dozen competitors making their Mountain Course debuts or graduating from the Manx Grand Prix.
The roster blends youthful talent, proven speed, and seasoned experience, all under the guidance of liaison officers and TT legends ‘Milky’ Quayle, John Barton, Dave Molyneux, and Lee Cain.
The Newcomers
Mitch Rees, son of New Zealand superbike star Tony Rees, arrives with strong credentials. A dominant force in his national championships, Rees notably defeated Peter Hickman and Davey Todd at last year’s Wanganui meeting. “I’ve grown up watching the TT, so to finally race here is a dream,” said Rees, who joins Milenco by Padgett’s Motorcycles.
Barry Burrell, a British Superbike Championship veteran with 89 starts, brings a wealth of experience. The County Durham rider has multiple top-10 finishes, including a career-best fourth. “The TT is a different beast, but I’m ready for the challenge,” Burrell remarked.
In the sidecar class, Steve Kershaw and passenger Rhys Gibbons make their TT debut.
Kershaw, a British champion and world championship podium finisher, said: “This is the ultimate test for any sidecar team.”
Gibbons, who secured third in his 2024 debut with Alan Founds, added: “The course is unforgiving, but we’re prepared.”
George Holden, son of two-time TT winner John Holden, teams up with experienced passenger Mark Wilkes. “I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I’m here to learn,” said Holden.
MGP Graduates
Six riders step up from the Manx Grand Prix, including Victor Lopez, the 2023 Junior race winner. “The TT is the pinnacle—I’ve waited years for this,” said the Spaniard.
Italy’s Andrea Majola, the 2024 Junior winner, aims to impress across all classes. “Winning at the Manx gave me the confidence to tackle the TT,” he said.
Sam Johnson, returning after a Manx GP resurgence, said, “I’m better prepared now. The TT demands respect, and I’ve learned that.”
With international talent and rising stars, the 2025 TT promises thrilling competition. As Mitch Rees put it: “This is where legends are made.”
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