The 2025 Isle of Man TT will be remembered as a turning point in the sport’s rich history — a thrilling blend of veteran excellence and emerging talent that lit up the Mountain Course like never before. From the roar of tradition to the quiet arrival of a new era, the races this year delivered unforgettable performances, none more historic than Michael Dunlop’s extraordinary achievements.
Dunlop etched his name even deeper into the annals of road racing, claiming four wins and taking his all-time TT victory tally to 29 — a new record that surpasses the great Joey Dunlop. His dominance in the Supersport, Superbike, and Superstock categories proved he’s still the benchmark. His ride in the Senior TT was nothing short of masterful, combining raw speed with strategic brilliance to hold off strong challenges and seal the week in triumphant fashion. Unsurprisingly, he walked away with the Joey Dunlop TT Championship Trophy, awarded to the overall points leader of the week.
While Dunlop’s legacy grew, the 2025 TT also shone a light on rising stars who are quickly carving their own path into history. Perhaps the most exciting name to emerge was 23-year-old Max Watson, who stormed to his first podium finish in the Supertwin race before shocking the paddock with a sensational win in the second Supertwin outing. His aggressive yet calculated riding earned him the coveted Newcomer of the Year Award and the admiration of fans and veterans alike.
Dean Harrison continued his consistent run of podiums across multiple classes, including a hard-fought second in the Superbike TT, where he pushed Dunlop all the way. Although he didn’t take home a win this year, his professionalism and pace were rewarded with the Spirit of the TT Award — a recognition of his commitment, sportsmanship, and impact on the event.
In the sidecar class, the Birchall brothers extended their dynasty, grabbing yet another double victory and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in three-wheeled racing. Their flawless synchronization and sheer pace earned them the Sidecar Trophy once again, further cementing their legendary status.
Among the international entries, Japanese rider Riku Tanaka turned heads with a pair of top-10 finishes in the Supersport races. Competing in only his second TT, Tanaka showed poise, courage, and exceptional speed — leading many to believe he’s destined for bigger things. His performances didn’t go unnoticed, as he was honored with the Best Overseas Competitor Award.
Women also made a meaningful mark on this year’s races. Sarah Boyes became the fastest female rider ever around the Mountain Course, with an average lap speed just shy of 130 mph. Her groundbreaking performance earned her the Outstanding Achievement Award, signaling the growing inclusivity and evolution of the TT.
The 2025 Isle of Man TT proved that while legends like Michael Dunlop continue to raise the bar, a thrilling new generation is already pushing at the edges. With every twist of the throttle, the TT remains not just a race — but a celebration of courage, talent, and the relentless pursuit of speed.
