Tom Birchall thanks fans for support over retirement decision

Thursday, 11 January 2024 14:30

14-time TT winner says responses have been 'overwhelming' and 'humbling'

14-time TT winner and sidecar passenger Tom Birchall is thanking fans for their support follow his decision to immediately retire from racing.

Birchall - the most successful sidecar passenger in TT history - has given an update on social media after confirming he'd be stepping back from racing last month.

In a statement, he says "just so it's clear, there is nothing but love within the team and there's no problem or issues. It's just the right time for me, personally to step back.

"It's been an overwhelming response to me announcing my racing retirement... it's humbling, and I've loved that."

He and his brother Ben Birchall have won every single race they've finished on the Snaefell Mountain Course since 2013 and last year became the first sidecar crew in TT history to surpass the 120mph mark.

It's already been confirmed Ben will continue racing in 2024 with a new passenger still to be announced.

What's more, Tom adds he still loves the TT and 'always will', going on to confirm he will be at the 2024 races 'either working or in the hedgerows watching the bikes blast through.'

Tom Birchall thanks fans for support over retirement decision

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