It is a double tragedy for the Dunlop family, elder brother, Joey, losing his life in an accident while racing in Estonia.

Feel free to leave your tributes to Robert Dunlop below. He was a sporting icon in Northern Ireland and like his borther, Joey will be sorely missed in the morotcycle racing world.

TRIBUTES ALREADY PAID


DUP MLA Ian Paisley Jnr
I have known Robert Dunlop for many years and would regard him and his family as personal friends as well as one of my most prominent constituents.
I am absolutely saddened and shocked at this tragedy not only for him and his family but motorcycling in general.


NW200 Clerk of The Course, Mervyn Whyte
Our thoughts and prayers are with Robert's family and we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Louise, children William, Daniel and Michael and wider family circle.
Robert was one of Northern Ireland's best known and most experienced riders, who will always be remembered for his infectious personality and love for road racing.



News Letter Motorcycling Correspondent, Dermot James
Always a winner Robert told me 'once the helmet goes on you're out to beat everybody else and yes, we could all be dicing together but we know how to stay within our limits.'
He always pushed hard right from the drop pof the flag and was a winner earlier this year at Cookstown.
Robert may have been small in stature but he could walk tall whenever the occasions demanded.

Former TT and north West star Phillip McCallen
Robert Dunlop was a motorcycling icon and a tough competitor who could not stay away from the sport.
Racing and motorcycles are in the Dunlop blood and Robert could not give it up," said the 11-times TT winner.
He did try to retire but he got a real buzz from riding motorcycles. It is difficult to describe the feeling - you need to have done it yourself.

Liam Beckett, Dunlop's mechanic for over 20 years
I am just numb. People will be waking up to the news that Ballymoney has lost abnother of its favourites sons.
It is a dagger in the heart for us all.


Alistair Kennedy, on behalf of Kennedy Group, title sponsors NW200
Robert Dunlop's tragic and untimely death has come as a massive shock to us all. He was one of the finest roadracers ever to compete in the NW200 and a tremendous ambassador for the sport both here and across the world.


Ray Williams,Ballaugh ISLE OF MAN
Another sad loss sorely missed by race fans ,say hello to yer kid bro from us and commiserations from all race fans alike especially the Manx race followers.


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