BREAKING: Nothern Ireland motorcycle racing to go ahead

The MCUI has announced that motorcycle racing will go ahead in Northern Ireland in 2023.

A new insurance quote will now allow motorcycle racing which was previously cancelled, to go ahead in Northern Ireland. The new insurance quote means that both road racing and short circuit racing will go run this year.

The MCUI originally cancelled racing due to a rise in insurance costs, in February. A crowdfunding page was launched which allowed fans to donate, raising almost £90,000. However, racing will run after the MCUI accepted a lower quote from an insurance company. 

One organiser to already confirm that they will go ahead this year is the North West 200. The Cookstown 100 and Armoy national road races are also planning to go ahead this year. However, the Tandragee 100 has announced that they will not run the event this season.

Clubs and organisers will now be able to promote their events for this year, which were previously in doubt. 

John Dillon said: “Following the initial decision and listening to the feedback of the racing community a ‘Crowd Fund me’ was set up so racing fans could do their bit to help out. Although we know that it was a big ask, we are overwhelmed at the generosity of all who contributed.

“Combined with this total figure now raised, and the determination by MCUT UC member Mr Steven Lyons, who has worked around the clock with our insurers to find a solution, we are now pleased to be able to announce a new insurance quote has been secured, which makes it possible for all clubs to promote their events in 2023.

“The objective of the crowdfunding was that enough funds would be raised so that all clubs would have the option to promote their events. The figure currently raised combined with the new insurance quote has now made this possible.

“Thanks to all the efforts of those concerned, the MCUI-UC, promoting clubs and members are extremely grateful and humbled by everyone’s generosity.”

Image credit: David Maginnis