The Isle of Man TT (Tourist Trophy) is one of the most iconic and perilous motorcycle races in the world. Since its inception in 1907, the TT has attracted some of the greatest riders in the history of motorsport, each of whom has carved out their own legacy on the 37.73-mile Mountain Course. From record-breaking lap times to heroic victories, the TT has witnessed some truly unforgettable performances. In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the most famous and influential racers who have left their mark on the Isle of Man TT.
1. John McGuinness: The King of the Mountain
Nationality: British
Total TT Wins: 23 (as of 2023)
Best Known For: His incredible consistency and versatility across different categories.
John McGuinness is undoubtedly one of the most iconic figures in the history of the Isle of Man TT. Known as the “King of the Mountain,” McGuinness holds 23 TT victories, making him the second most successful rider in TT history, behind only Joey Dunlop (who we’ll discuss shortly). His first win came in 1999 in the Junior TT (600cc), and since then, McGuinness has amassed a remarkable number of wins in the Superbike, Supersport, and Superstock races.
What sets McGuinness apart is his remarkable consistency and ability to excel across different classes, from the 600cc machines to the 1,000cc superbikes. His fearless approach to racing, combined with his technical skill and deep understanding of the Mountain Course, made him the benchmark for other riders. Even as the years went by and younger talent emerged, McGuinness maintained his place at the top of the TT leaderboard for over a decade.
2. Joey Dunlop: The Greatest of All Time
Nationality: Northern Irish
Total TT Wins: 26
Best Known For: His unmatched record of 26 TT victories and his legendary status both on and off the track.
If there is one name that is synonymous with the Isle of Man TT, it’s Joey Dunlop. The Northern Irish legend is the most successful rider in TT history, with a record 26 wins, a feat that has yet to be matched. Dunlop’s career spanned several decades, and he became a symbol of what the TT stood for—courage, dedication, and an unrelenting desire to win.
Dunlop made his TT debut in 1969, and by the early 1980s, he was already a dominant force, winning multiple races each year. His success wasn’t confined to one category—Dunlop triumphed in Superbike, Supersport, and Sidecar races, showcasing his versatility and adaptability. Beyond his racing prowess, Dunlop was beloved for his humble nature, charitable work, and deep love for the sport.
His tragic death in 2000, while racing in Estonia, shocked the motorsport world. Even after his passing, Joey Dunlop’s legacy continues to inspire riders and fans alike, and his name will forever be etched in the history of the TT.
3. Michael Dunlop: The Modern-Day TT Titan
Nationality: Northern Irish
Total TT Wins: 21 (as of 2023)
Best Known For: His fearless riding style and his ability to break records, including setting lap records and winning multiple classes.
The legacy of the Dunlop family is one of the most important in TT history, with Michael Dunlop, Joey’s nephew, carrying the torch in recent years. Michael has firmly established himself as one of the greatest riders of the modern era, with 21 TT wins to his name, making him one of the most successful competitors on the circuit.
Michael’s most famous victory came in 2013, when he won the Superbike TT on a BMW S1000RR, setting a new lap record with an average speed of 132.9 mph. He followed this up with several wins in the Supersport and Superstockraces, adding to his growing reputation as a fearless rider willing to push the limits of both man and machine.
What sets Michael apart is his combination of raw speed, skill, and mental toughness. He’s known for riding with an almost reckless abandon, often taking risks that others might shy away from, and it has paid off time and time again. As of 2023, Michael continues to compete at the highest level, further cementing his place among the TT’s most famous and successful riders.
4. Ian Hutchinson: The Record-Breaking Feat
Nationality: British
Total TT Wins: 16
Best Known For: Winning five races in a single week in 2010, the most wins in a single TT event.
Ian Hutchinson is another modern-day TT legend who earned his place in history in 2010 with an extraordinary achievement—five wins in a single TT event. Hutchinson’s victory in the Superbike, Supersport, Superstock, and Junior TT races that year remains one of the most incredible feats in the history of the event. His remarkable consistency, combined with his technical skill and ability to adapt to different types of machines, made him one of the most feared competitors at the TT.
Hutchinson’s career has been plagued by injuries, particularly after a severe crash in 2017, but his determination and love for racing have kept him coming back to the Mountain Course. His achievements were recognized when he was awarded the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award in 2010, cementing his place as one of the TT greats.
5. Guy Martin: The Fan Favorite
Nationality: British
Total TT Wins: 0 (but with 13 podium finishes)
Best Known For: His fearless riding style and captivating personality.
While Guy Martin may not have won a TT race, his impact on the event has been immeasurable. The Lincolnshire rider became a fan favorite thanks to his bold, no-holds-barred approach to racing. Martin is known for his blistering lap times, fearless overtaking, and immense bravery. His popularity skyrocketed not only because of his talent but also due to his infectious personality and love of motorsport.
Despite finishing on the podium 13 times, including four second-place finishes in the Senior TT, Martin never managed to win a race, much to the frustration of his loyal followers. However, his performances were always filled with drama, and his dedication to pushing the limits made him a beloved figure in the sport.
Guy Martin's influence extends beyond the track as well, with several documentaries about his life and career, making him one of the most recognizable faces in motorsport.
6. Peter Hickman: The Lap Record Holder
Nationality: British
Total TT Wins: 8 (as of 2023)
Best Known For: Breaking the lap record at the TT with an average speed of 135.452 mph in 2018.
Peter Hickman is one of the most talented riders of the current era, known for his technical skill and speed on the TT circuit. Hickman’s biggest achievement came in 2018, when he set a new lap record for the Isle of Man TT with an average speed of 135.452 mph in the Senior TT, a record that has made him one of the fastest riders in TT history.
In addition to his Senior TT win, Hickman has also triumphed in the Superstock and Superbike classes, earning multiple podium finishes over the years. His deep understanding of the TT circuit, combined with his relentless pursuit of perfection, has made him a force to be reckoned with on the island.
Conclusion: The Legends of the Isle of Man TT
The Isle of Man TT is a race that tests not only a rider’s skill and bravery but also their mental toughness and resilience. The legends of the TT—like Joey Dunlop, John McGuinness, Michael Dunlop, Ian Hutchinson, and others—have made their names by conquering one of the most dangerous and demanding circuits in the world.
While the riders we’ve highlighted represent the pinnacle of TT racing, the beauty of the Isle of Man TT lies in its ability to create new heroes every year. With every race, new records are set, new faces emerge, and the legacy of the TT continues to grow.
The mountain course remains a battleground for the world’s best riders, and the most famous racers in its history will forever be remembered for their courage, determination, and unrivaled skill. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the TT, it’s clear that the race will continue to produce unforgettable moments, with legends to match.