David Johnson “Battered” but Confirms Isle of Man TT Return in 2025
Lee Hardy Racing has confirmed David ‘Davo’ Johnson is returning in 2025, which means he will tackle the Isle of Man TT course a year on from his big crash
David Johnson’s return to the Kawasaki ZX-10RR means he will lead the Lee Hardy Racing team’s road racing program, which features the North West 200, Isle of Man TT and several BSB rounds although it has not been confirmed where as of yet.
Johnson saw his 2024 Isle of Man TT end early after suffering a monster crash during the Superbike TT race. Having already suffered from brake fade with over a lap to go, Johnson was then hit with a big tank slapper which he was unable to save.
Although the Australian is still not 100 per cent fit, he is aiming to make a return to the legendary course next year.
Confirming the news, Lee Hardy Racing said: “Back in 2025 as the Official Kawasaki road racing team with Australian sensation Davo Johnson, the team is looking forward to competing at the North West 200 and Isle of Man TT. It is fantastic to have the support of Kawasaki again and having a manufacturer directly supporting the team is a great feeling.
“We have unfinished business on the roads, it was unfortunate to end the way it did this year at the TT when Davo was showing amazing potential throughout practice week. Davo is very excited to sign a new deal with the team and continue with Kawasaki aboard the ZX10-RR.”
The confirmation of Johnson returning comes a week on from FHO Racing BMW, finalising its own road racing lineup in 2025, which is somewhat of a dream team as 14-time TT winner Peter Hickman will be partnered by rising star Davey Todd who claimed victory in the Senior TT race earlier this summer.
Prior to FHO Racing confirming its plans, Honda Racing UK did the same as Dean Harrison will lead the road racing efforts alongside John McGuinness, who will compete in the Superbike, Superstock and Senior TT races.
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After graduating with a sports journalism degree, Robert joined Crash.net to lead the WorldSBK coverage in 2021, while also providing MotoGP coverage. Fulfilling that role for over three years, Robert was able to put his knowledge about all things racing to the test.
