Manx competitors a step closer to MGP debuts

Several Island riders could make maiden appearance there in 2025

Rising Island racing talent Grant Thomson looks to have moved a step closer to making his Manx Grand Prix debut this year.

The Port St Mary rider has been named in the 2025 racing lineup for Island-based privateer side The People's Bike.

Along with MGP, the crew says Thomson is due to contest the Southern 100 - the meeting in which he made his road racing debut in 2024.

He's one of several Island riders currently in contention to make their maiden appearance on the Snaefell Mountain Course this season along with Luke Blevins, Wayne Avis, Blake Kelly and Sam Naughton.

Competing on the roads for the first time last year, Thomson made an immediate impression at the Southern 100 Road Races on the Billown course to win the Solo Founders Race.

He's one of a trio of riders The People's Bike intends to run in racing on Manx shores this year.

Sam Johnson has been confirmed as their competitor for this year's Isle of Man TT Races whilst another experienced campaigner in Rhys Hardisty will represent them at the Pre-TT Classic Road Races.

Meanwhile, the other local riders looking for a place on the MGP grid impressed during 2024.

Among them, Luke Blevins finished the campaign a double Andreas Racing Association (ARA) champion, finishing top of the pile in both the Singles, Twins & Triples Championship and Supertwins Championship.

Entries into this year's Manx Grand Prix for Thomson, Blevins, Avis, Kelly and Naughton will all be subject to final checks and approvals.