TT 2026: Gary McCoy to make long-awaited debut

Cookstown rider missed last year's event due to injury

A Cookstown rider considered to be one of Northern Ireland's emerging road racing talents is due to make his long-awaited Isle of Man TT Races debut this year.

Gary McCoy is expected to compete across the 1000cc classes and Supersport races on the Snaefell Mountain Course this summer.

He'd previously been due to make his maiden TT appearance last year but was ruled out after sustaining injuries at the North West 200 in 2025.

For 2026, he'll pilot BMW machinery in the Senior, Superbike and Superstock races whilst riding a Suzuki 750 for both Supersport events.

On his latest opportunity to get started on the mountain course, McCoy says: "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."

Whilst his injuries last year prevented him from making the journey to the Isle of Man, he did make a successful competitive return later in the campaign at the Sunflower Trophy races at Bishopscourt.

The 2026 Isle of Man TT Races are scheduled to take place from Monday, 25 May until Saturday, 6 June.