TT 2026: Former Honda BSB rider pulls out of eagerly anticipated TT debut for 'personal reasons'
By Kyle White
Published 25th May 2026, 19:51 GMT
Former Honda British Superbike rider and Isle of Man TT newcomer Franco Bourne has withdrawn from the event on the first day of the two-week festival.
Bourne was due to ride for Ian Lougher’s team in the Sportbike races on a Paton, but will take no further part due to personal reasons.
The 21-year-old made his debut at the North West 200 a few weeks ago and impressed on the Team ILR Paton, earning a best result of fifth place in the second race after claiming ninth in the opener.
Japanese rider Masayuki Yamanaka will ride for Lougher’s team in the Sportbike races on a Paton.