Roads: Hutchinson withdraws from Ulster GP

Ian Hutchinson has opted not to compete in this year’s Ulster Grand Prix as he continues to focus on getting back to full fitness.

The 16-time TT winner made a remarkable comeback for this year’s North West 200 and Isle of Man TT just weeks after having the cage removed from the leg he broke in the 2016 Senior TT.

Despite barely being able to walk, Hutchinson completed an impressive number of laps at the TT but wasn’t up to his usual competitive standard.

Determined to be 100% for the 2019 season, the Bingley Bullet has taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the upcoming Ulster Grand Prix, leaving team-mate Lee Johnston to go it alone with Honda Racing.

“It’s been a really tough call, but unfortunately I’ll be missing the Ulster GP again this year,” he said. “My leg is still not strong enough for me to ride how I need to so I’m concentrating on getting everything 100% for next year. Thanks to Honda, Padgetts and Noel Johnston (Ulster GP boss) for supporting my decision.”