RST to Launch Team RST at the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 with three-time NW200 race winner, Ian Hutchinson

The indefatigable Ian Hutchinson is set to unveil his new TeamRST BMW racing squad at the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 on May 4-9.

The three-time NW200 race winner, who claimed the final podium place in the Amici Ristorante Superstock race last year aboard a MLav Racing BMW last year, will compete in the Superstock and Superbike races on M1000RR machinery in the new Team RST livery, this time around.

“It’s been 21 years since I last ran my own team, and now feels like the right time to do it again.” Hutchinson said.

“It’s slightly daunting, but this project is very personal to me. After everything I’ve experienced at the TT I still have that drive to prove we can compete at the very front. Everyone involved has come on this journey with me, and I want it to work for all of us. To be building this team together with these amazing partners who’ve supported me for so long means a lot. We’re aiming for that one spot — and I want everyone to get something out of this.”

As a sponsor of the North West 200, the RST clothing company has long played a critical role in protecting competitors at the north coast event. The launch of TeamRST signals a natural evolution of that commitment, moving from protecting the grid to competing at the very front of it.

The project is supported by a world-class roster of technical and performance partners, including Arai, EK Chain, D3O, Motul, In&motion and Quad Lock, alongside key collaborators PBR Sprockets, Focused Events, BMC, and SMR Performance. Together, these partners will play an integral role in developing the bike, equipment, and performance infrastructure required to compete at the highest level of road racing.

“Launching TeamRST is a defining moment for our brand.” Stuart Millington, VP of RST said.

“We’re doing this with one goal, giving Ian the package he needs to win at this year’s Isle of Man TT and NW200. As the Official Safety Partner for both events we’ve been committed to protecting riders for many years, and have been working with Ian for over 15 years.”

“We will be delighted to have Ian Hutchinson back on the Briggs Equipment North West 200 grid in 2026 with his new TeamRST.” Mervyn Whyte, NW200 Race Director, said.

“It was great to see Ian back up on the rostrum here last year and there can be little doubt that, with his speed and determination, he will be at the front of the pack again this year with his new RST backed squad.”

NW 200 Race 3 AMICI Superstock Race
Ian Hutchinson is delighted with his 3rd place finish in the Superstock race during this evenings North West 200.

Photo Stephen Davison/Pacemaker Press