The Isle of Man TT race is probably the toughest and certainly the most dangerous motorcycle race in the world.
Taking place on the island's public roads at the end of May each year, this adrenaline-pumping contest not only showcases speed but also tests the limits of human endurance and skill.
With an average speed of 205km/h zigzagging through 300-330 corners over a challenging 60.5-kilometre track, riders enter a realm where the thin line between exhilaration and danger blurs as the sound of motorbikes can be heard reverberating everywhere for 13 days.
To give you an idea of how dangerous the race is, 265 deaths have been recorded in the 102 races that have taken place since 1907; 1982 was the only year that there were no fatalities.
Special breed
So to mount a motorbike and scream around for six laps in the elite senior TT takes a special breed of racer.
Such a man is AJ Venter who will be competing for the ninth time and will also be the sole South African and African representative at the prestigious event.
Big money
However, this year marks a remarkable turning point in his racing career, as he has secured a life-changing sponsorship of R4.2 million from luxury automotive group FuturExotics, a pivotal partnership that will unfold over the next three years.
FuturExotics, celebrated for its collection of exclusive luxury and bespoke supercars, makes its first significant venture into motorsport with this significant endorsement.
Their founder and co-owner, billionaire entrepreneur Zunaid Moti, expressed a shared vision with Venter, explaining: “What drives us at FuturExotics is the same thing that drives AJ – the relentless pursuit of perfection and the desire to reach new heights. AJ's courage, skill and commitment to racing mirror the precision, innovation and excellence we strive to bring to our brand.
"I’m obsessed with anything on wheels that’s fast and beautiful, and watching someone with this depth of talent who can master these incredible machines is truly something special.”
Game-changer
For Venter, this sponsorship is nothing short of revolutionary. “It's a game-changer,” said Venter. “Competing at the Isle of Man TT requires complete dedication, both physically and financially. Having Zunaid Moti and FuturExotics in my corner for the next three years means I can focus entirely on training and performance without limitations. This is the kind of backing that elevates a racer to the next level.
“Previously the first time I saw my bike was when it arrived in a crate and we had to build it at the track.”
For his 2025 Isle of Man TT campaign, Venter will take to the track on a completely overhauled 2024 BMW S 1000 RR – a high-performance superbike that has undergone an extensive and costly transformation by his specialist race team.
Every component has been fine-tuned for optimal speed, stability, and control to meet the extreme demands of the gruelling course. The modifications alone equate to the cost of the original bike itself, underscoring the precision engineering and state-of-the-art performance upgrades required to compete at this level.
The upgrades include:
K-Tech front and rear suspension – Specially designed race suspension for superior handling, precision, and control on high-speed corners and jumps.
Mototec Software – Custom Electric Control Unit (ECU) tuning to extract maximum power and torque, calibrated specifically for the unique demands of the TT.
Fairing kit – A full aerodynamic bodywork upgrade to enhance stability at speeds exceeding 300km/h and reduce drag.
Quick action throttle – Optimised throttle response for instant acceleration and race-level control.
Lightweight lithium battery – Reducing weight while providing maximum electrical efficiency.
Extended 24 litre fuel tank and upgraded fuel cap – Modified to increase endurance and allow for fewer fuel stops for a competitive advantage.
Mototec GPS system – Real-time telemetry tracking and performance analytics to fine-tune race-day strategies
Despite a litany of injuries including multiple broken arms, a cracked pelvis, and numerous concussions, Venter’s determination exemplifies his life motto: "Don't stop when you are tired... stop when you are done."
In addition to his competitive commitments, Venter operates a riding school and registered NPO Academy where he is involved in developing and mentoring the next generation of racing talent, ranging from the age of five years through to 18 years.
He currently mentors several young riders, including Kgopotso Mononyane, the only South African contender in the RedBull Rookies Cup, the feeding class to the MotoGP Championships.