TT 2026: Experienced racer Sam West announces decision to withdraw from remainder of event
Experienced Isle of Man TT rider Sam West has withdrawn from the event.
The Cheshire rider was set to compete in all four solo classes but will take no further part in the event.
West, who made his TT debut in 2015, achieved a best result of eighth in the Superstock race in 2018.
Outlining his decision to pull out of the TT, West posted on social media: “I arrived on the back foot this year after a tricky North West 200 where the Ducati Supersport developed an intermittent electrical fault, and a small crash on the BMW in the last race damaged the engine.
“With no time between events to test and repair, those problems came with me to the Isle of Man.
“We've given it everything to resolve the issues, worked relentlessly to get sorted, but qualifying is over, time is up.
“The next-gen Supersport electronics has an issue and needs new parts, and we need a spare engine for BMW.
“This is my 10th TT and after so much potential shown in testing on the new bikes I really thought this year I was back where I wanted to be, but the TT is a fickle thing and the slightest problem can derail the whole job.
“After speaking with the organisers and sponsors, I have decided the only option is to step back this year and retire from TT26.”
West said he will now turn his focus to the Southern 100, Armoy road races and Macau Grand Prix.