TT: No McGuinness replacement at Honda

Honda Racing will not replace John McGuinness at this year’s Isle of Man TT after the 23-time TT winner was ruled out of action following his North West 200 crash.

McGuinness suffered a bad break to his lower right leg when he fell from his CBR1000RR Fireblade SP2 at Primrose Hill in the final Superbike qualifying session at the North West, he also sustained four broken vertebrae and broken back ribs.

The Morecambe ace continues to recover in hospital after having been transferred from Belfast Royal Victoria to Liverpool last week, but is understood to be in good spirits.

TOP STORIES

• Nicky Hayden gives gift of life with organ donation
• Yamaha recall MT models
• Burt Munro’s great nephew heading to Bonneville
• Valentino Rossi admitted to hospital after motocross accident
• Top 5 ways to get cheap motorcycle insurance

Following the recent news that Lee Johnston had parted company with the Jackson Racing team, rumours were rife that the Northern Irishman had been called up to replace McGuinness but MCN understands no such calls were made, with the Honda team opting not to replace their star rider from an early stage. Johnston is expected to campaign his East Coast Racing BMW in the Superbike and Senior races. 

The news means Guy Martin will be the sole rider for the Honda team at this year’s event, and while the Lincolnshire TV star has been off the pace throughout pre-season, it’s believed there was a significant step forward in the team’s final pre-TT test at Castle Combe last week. 

Pick up a copy of our special edition McGuinness: Ordinary bloke. Extraordinary Racer. This special from MCN, celebrates the career of one of the sport’s best-loved road racers. Affectionately known as McPint, John’s career has wowed and entertained bike racing fans for more than 20 years. BUY IT NOW!

Looking for the perfect two-wheeled companion? Visit MCN Bikes For Sale website or use MCN’s Bikes For Sale App.