Mike Browne Sportbike TT 2026

Senior Classic TT winner Mike Browne has signed to ride the Venhill-supported Team Melbray / Laycock Racing Paton in the new Sportbike class at the 2026 Isle of Man TT.

The Irish rider from Cork is no newcomer to the Paton, having ridden it to 2nd place in the 2023 Supertwin race 1. After building up a commanding 18 second lead in Race 2, Mike sadly retired with mechanical issues.

Mike says: “I’m really looking forward to riding this Paton as the bike and I have unfinished business. I am looking to be at the sharp end again on it and riding for the Melbray / Laycock Racing team. It took no time at all to say ‘yes’ to the ride.”

The newly formed, but twice podium finishing, Team Melbray London have joined forces with the vastly experienced Eddie Laycock's team, Laycock Racing, to mount a strong challenge in the new Sportbike class.

Melbray Racing Team owner Simon Warren had this to say: “Our little team starts its next adventure and I really don’t know what I’m more excited about, Mike riding our bike or Eddie and his great team looking after it! First and foremost, myself and my family are great TT fans and we were so happy that Dom Herbertson took a great 3rd place podium in this years’ TT, while Glen English achieved such an unbelievable second place in the 2024 Classic Junior. However, having Mike riding for us is a dream come true as he’s such an outstanding rider, who is perfectly suited to the Paton. I think he will do really well on it and I feel equally as lucky to have Team Laycock Racing preparing and looking after the bike. Thank you to our sponsors, Venhill Engineering, The Shed at Laxey , Bike Shed London and Birch Gatwick for their continued support too".

Follow the team’s progress on Instagram @melbrayracing