Fans of motorcycle road racing are still reflecting on a dramatic 2025 campaign, but attention is already shifting towards what lies ahead in 2026. Last season delivered standout performances, landmark victories and calendar changes, setting the stage for another compelling year on the roads.
Michael Dunlop and Davey Todd were the dominant figures at the North West 200, each securing three wins, while Dunlop extended his legendary Isle of Man TT record by claiming his fifth four-timer to reach 33 career victories. Todd added further weight to his growing reputation with a Superbike TT win, the Southern 100 Solo Championship and success at the Macau Grand Prix.
With teams outlining early plans and organisers confirming schedule tweaks and class updates, the shape of the 2026 season is beginning to emerge.
North West 200 set to launch the season
The North West 200 will again serve as the curtain-raiser to the international road racing calendar, with on-track action scheduled from 6–9 May. The meeting is set to take on added significance by hosting a round of the European Series Road Racing Superbike Championship, a move expected to boost its international profile.
Honda Racing are set to continue with Dean Harrison and John McGuinness, while Davey Todd and Peter Hickman are expected to return with BMW under the 8TEN Racing banner. Michael Dunlop will once again be targeting further success after ending a long wait for North West victories with a memorable treble last May.
There is also the possibility of a high-profile return, with 11-time Superbike winner Glenn Irwin hinting at renewed involvement after discussions around safety improvements.
“We spoke about a lot of things about the North West, including safety improvements,” Irwin said, according to BBC Sport NI. “If they can keep making steps then I couldn’t rule it out.”
Key storylines emerging at the Isle of Man TT
Dunlop remains the benchmark at the TT, particularly in Supersport and Supertwins, but attention will also be on whether he can add further Superbike wins to his tally. Speculation continues around his machinery choices in the premier classes.
Peter Hickman’s return from injury will be closely watched after he missed the 2025 races, while Dean Harrison will aim to build on his Superstock double. Davey Todd is also expected to push for more wins after his recent breakthrough successes.
The 2026 TT, running from 25 May to 6 June, will feature notable schedule adjustments, including extra rest days, additional contingency periods and a revised race order for Superstock and Supersport. The Supertwin class will also expand to include Sportbike-spec machines, bringing in manufacturers such as Triumph, Suzuki and CF Moto alongside existing entries.
Irish road racing scene gathers momentum
Road racing in Northern Ireland appears to be on firmer ground following recent uncertainty. Established events such as the North West 200, Cookstown 100 and Armoy Road Races remain key fixtures, while the Tandragee 100 successfully returned in 2025.
Plans are in place for the Mid Antrim 150 to rejoin the calendar in late July, and there is cautious optimism about road racing resuming in the Republic of Ireland in 2026 after a prolonged absence due to insurance challenges.
Further encouragement came with confirmation that efforts are under way to revive the Ulster Grand Prix, supported by new funding, with 2027 identified as a realistic target for its return.
With established stars, emerging talent and evolving race formats, the 2026 road racing season is shaping up to offer fresh intrigue while building on the rich traditions of the sport.
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