Coward joins Rees in Milenco by Padgett's for this year's TT

He'll be riding for the team in new-look Sportbike class

Mitch Rees has been confirmed by Milenco by Pagett's racing team ahead of this year's TT.

The 33-year-old New Zealander will spearhead the Yorkshire-based outfit's challenge across all classes as they continue their long-term association with Honda.

Joining him in the Sportbike category, which replaces Supertwin, is Jamie Coward, who'll be contesting the class on the Paton which Davey Todd rode to a second place finish last year.

“We’re as enthusiastic as ever about the year ahead," says team principal Clive Padgett. "The TT is always a major part of what we do, and with Mitch building on last year’s experience and Jamie joining us in the Sportbike class, we’ve got a strong and balanced team. Both riders understand what the Mountain Course demands, and we believe the equipment gives them every opportunity to progress.”

“Last year was a massive learning curve," admits Mitch Rees. "The TT is unlike anything we have back home in New Zealand. I felt we made solid progress despite the conditions, and now I know what’s required. The goal is to move towards that 130mph mark if I can get close to that on the big bike I will be happy.”

“Joining Padgett’s is something special," says Jamie Coward. "It’s an iconic team in British racing and at the TT. I’m fully fit again and highly motivated. The Supertwin class is ultra-competitive, but I believe we can be in the mix and put on a strong showing.”