Glenn Irwin returns, Storm Stacey debuts as excitement builds for prestigious event
Category: Local News
The North West 200 is gearing up for one of its most thrilling editions in recent history, set to take place from May 6 to 9, 2026. This iconic road racing event, which features a 14.3-kilometre coastal course between Portrush, Portstewart, and Coleraine, will see some of the world’s best racers compete for nine victories across four classes.
As the race week approaches, the excitement is particularly heightened by the return of Glenn Irwin, who aims to chase his twelfth consecutive Superbike victory after a year-long absence. Irwin, who holds the outright lap record at the North West 200, will be riding a Ducati V4R for the Nitrous Competitions Racing Team.
With a lineup that includes six riders with over 200 combined international road race victories, the 2026 North West 200 will likely be a spectacular showcase of talent. Among the competitors are Michael Dunlop, Peter Hickman, Alastair Seeley, and Dean Harrison, alongside newcomers like Storm Stacey, who is making his road racing debut.
Race week officially kicks off on May 4, 2026, with on-track action beginning on Wednesday, May 6. The first qualifying sessions are scheduled for that day, with roads closed from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. The racing action continues with multiple qualifying rounds and races through the week, culminating in the main race day on Saturday, May 9, when six races will take place.
Wednesday’s opening day of the North West 200 was marked by wet conditions, leading many competitors to prioritize banking qualifying laps rather than chasing fast times. Richard Cooper emerged as a standout performer, topping both the Superbike and Supersport sessions. Meanwhile, Josh Brookes led the Superstock category, and 62-year-old Jeremy ‘Jezza’ McWilliams topped the Supertwin/Sportbike standings.
Cooper, riding a BMW, expressed his cautious approach to the wet conditions, stating, “For me, the bike’s very new and the more laps I can do the more confident I will become.” His experience proved beneficial, as he navigated the tricky track conditions effectively.
Storm Stacey, a high-profile newcomer from the British Superbike Championship, drew considerable attention during the familiarisation laps. Sporting an orange bib and a top hat, Stacey's presence on the grid was well noted by photographers and fans alike. He rides a Ducati Panigale V4R and is excited about his debut at this prestigious event.
In a notable development, Michael Dunlop, a seasoned competitor, opted not to race his Ducati V4RR, instead using a Hawk Racing Honda Fireblade SBK. Unfortunately, he did not set a representative time during the session, indicating that he is still finding his footing with the new bike.
The North West 200, first held in 1929, has a storied history within the world of road racing. It is renowned for its challenging course and the caliber of riders it attracts. This year, the event is particularly special as it features a mix of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers, making it a must-watch for fans.
Glenn Irwin’s return is particularly poignant. He is the most successful Superbike rider in the event's history, having won eleven consecutive races from 2017 to 2024. After announcing his retirement in 2024, Irwin reversed his decision in January 2026, citing a desire to compete again. His comeback is seen as a major storyline for the 2026 edition.
In addition to Irwin, other notable competitors include Michael Dunlop, who has a staggering 130 victories at Irish road races and 33 wins at the Isle of Man TT. Dunlop's experience and past successes make him a formidable contender, especially after his three victories at the 2025 NW200.
Looking ahead, the competition is expected to intensify as the riders prepare for their final qualifying sessions and subsequent races. The weather forecast indicates that conditions may improve, providing a more favorable environment for the competitors to showcase their skills.
Davey Todd, another key competitor, is working on his comeback after suffering severe injuries during the Daytona 200 in March 2026. He has been cleared to compete but has tempered expectations, stating, “I can’t say I’m coming to fight for race wins.” Todd's participation adds another layer of intrigue to the event as he seeks to regain his form.
As the event draws closer, fans can look forward to extensive coverage. BBC Northern Ireland will broadcast all practice and race sessions live and free of charge worldwide, ensuring that the excitement of the North West 200 reaches audiences far beyond the local area.
With the stage set for an exhilarating week of racing, the North West 200 is ready to deliver thrilling action and unforgettable moments. As Glenn Irwin aims to reclaim his title and newcomers like Storm Stacey seek to make their mark, the 2026 edition will likely be one for the history books.
As race director Mervyn Whyte remarked, Irwin’s return is “undoubtedly the biggest and most exciting news in road racing for 2026.” With the first races taking place on May 7, fans are eager to see how the drama will unravel on the roads of Northern Ireland.