Despite the rumour mill running flat out at Scarborough’s Cock o’ the North meeting over the weekend, it has been confirmed that Davey Todd will complete the 2023 racing season with the Milenco by Padgetts team.

Hailed as one of the UK’s brightest prospects on both the roads and short circuits, Todd was conspicuous in his absence at the most recent BSB round at Knockhill, which came in the wake of his strong top five results in the Isle of Man TT.

It meant the 27-year old, though also not competing in Scarborough, was probably the most talked about figure in the paddock, as social media’s ‘all-knowing’ keyboard warriors suggested he was leaving Padgetts - the team with which he won the 2022 National Superstock title - and was instead in talks for a switch to either Honda or McAMS. 

Whether any of the latter stories were true or not, BSN understands Todd and Padgetts will be at the Southern 100, the BSB at Brands Hatch and in Ireland at Armoy. A source went on to shut down those who felt Todd under-performed at the TT

“Some of these people were suggesting Davey’s TT performance was disappointing, I can only suggest they must have been on another planet.

“Two fourths and a fifth for someone who is a relative newcomer, taking on the likes of Hickman, Dunlop, Harrison and team mate Conor Cummins is no mean feat. And there is more to come.”

What will happen in 2024 is yet to be decided but all-rounders like Hickman and relative youngsters like Todd are in great demand as the TT and BSB teams keep a watch our for the next generation.

As a sport that needs talented youngsters like Todd bidding to succeed in both disciplines, plus the likes of Kyle Ryde, who is proving to be a match for anyone in BSB right now. 

At a time when sponsorship is hard to come by and has some teams questioning their presence in 2024, the importance of bikes capable of winning is becoming very clear and a tight rein on costs by series and event promoters is integral to the success of the future generation.