Fans of motorcycle road racing are already looking ahead to the 2026 season after an action-packed 2025 campaign that delivered spectacular victories, dramatic moments, and a few disappointments. From Michael Dunlop’s continued dominance to emerging talents like Davey Todd, the new season promises intense competition, new developments, and exciting storylines across the North West 200, Isle of Man TT, and other major road racing events.
North West 200: Kicking Off the International Season
The North West 200 will once again mark the start of the international road racing calendar, taking place from 6-9 May 2026 in Northern Ireland. The event has been elevated with the introduction of the European Series Road Racing Superbike Championship (ESR), which will host its second round during the meeting.
Standout riders Michael Dunlop and Davey Todd are expected to challenge for victories, while Dean Harrison aims to convert his string of second-place finishes into a first win after five runner-up spots in 2025. Honda Racing will be represented by Harrison and veteran John McGuinness, while Todd and Peter Hickman will ride for BMW 8TEN Racing.
Glenn Irwin, a record 11-time Superbike winner at the event, has hinted at a possible return after sitting out the 2025 race, with safety improvements cited as a key factor in his potential comeback.
Isle of Man TT: Changes and Key Contenders
The 2026 Isle of Man TT, running from 25 May to 6 June, will feature several scheduling adjustments to improve rider safety and event flow. Notable changes include:
- Increased rest days and contingency periods
- Switching of the Superstock and Supersport classes in the running order
- Expansion of the Supertwin class to include Sportbike-spec machines from Triumph, Suzuki, and the CF Moto 675SR-R, alongside existing Paton, Aprilia, Kawasaki, and Yamaha bikes
Michael Dunlop will continue to be a major force at the TT, with eight consecutive wins in the Supersport class and recent victories in the Supertwins. His focus will also include adding to his tally of Superbike wins, as speculation continues about which machinery he will use.
Meanwhile, Peter Hickman returns after missing the 2025 TT due to a practice crash, and Dean Harrison will aim to build on his Superstock double from last year. Other riders to watch include Davey Todd, Conor Cummins, James Hillier, Josh Brookes, and rising stars such as Paul Jordan, Jim Hind, and Nathan Harrison.
Northern Ireland Road Racing: Growth and Stability
Northern Ireland’s road racing scene is showing renewed strength after past insurance-related challenges. Key events include:
- Armoy Road Races (late July), where Mike Browne and Michael Sweeney are set to feature prominently
- Cookstown 100 (late April), maintaining its traditional curtain-raiser status
- Tandragee 100, which returned successfully in 2025
- Mid Antrim 150, reinstated for 31 July–1 August
The region continues to produce top-level riders, with Michael Dunlop dominating major events and Mike Browne claiming multiple Armoy victories.
Prospects for the Republic of Ireland
There is optimism for the return of road racing in the Republic of Ireland in 2026 under Motorcycling Ireland, following a four-year hiatus mainly caused by high insurance costs. This development could expand the international calendar and provide new competitive opportunities.
Additionally, plans are underway to revive the Ulster Grand Prix with potential backing from the Northern Ireland Executive, aiming for a 2027 return for the renowned international road race.
Looking Ahead: Key Storylines
- Michael Dunlop pursuing more TT victories and Superbike success
- Davey Todd aiming for further international wins in Macau, Southern 100, and beyond
- Peter Hickman’s return and recovery from injury
- Dean Harrison and Honda’s pursuit of first North West 200 wins
- Expansion of the Supertwin class to include more Sportbike machines
- The potential return of Glenn Irwin and increased safety measures at major circuits
- Growth of Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland road racing, with Ulster GP restoration
The 2026 season promises to deliver thrilling motorcycle road racing action across Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, and beyond, with established stars and emerging talents set to make it a year to remember for fans.
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