Davey Todd Ruled Out of 2026 North West 200
Davey Todd, a nine-time winner at the North West 200, has expressed his disappointment after being declared unfit to compete in this year's event. The Yorkshire rider sustained serious injuries in a crash during the Daytona races in Florida earlier this year.
The chief medical officer for the North West 200 conducted a thorough assessment and concluded that Todd had not sufficiently recovered from his injuries to safely participate in the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200.
Details of Injuries and Medical Evaluation
The 30-year-old rider suffered multiple fractures, including a broken femur, tibia, foot, and nose, which required surgical intervention in the United States. Despite initial optimism from his 8Ten Racing teammate and co-owner Peter Hickman, who believed Todd might be ready to race, the medical evaluation has ruled otherwise.
A statement from the race organisers on Tuesday afternoon confirmed the decision:
"Following his injuries at Daytona in March, Davey Todd underwent a medical examination by the Chief Medical Officer at the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 today. Unfortunately, because of his injuries, Davey was found to be unfit to take part in the North West 200 this week."
Reactions from Organisers and Rider
Race director Mervyn Whyte expressed regret over Todd's absence:
"We are very disappointed that Davey will not be on the grid this year. He has enjoyed a lot of success at the North West and a huge following who will be equally disappointed. We would all have loved to have seen him out there racing but safety is paramount."
Todd himself shared his feelings with NI:
"I'm gutted, I'm confused. I worked so hard over the last weeks to get fit and to come back and race in front of the fans here at the North West."
"I rode a bike on Thursday for the first time at Valencia and I surprised myself with how fast I was going and how good I felt on the bike."
"Everything was slotting into place. I feel strong, feel healthier day by day and in a good place."
