ULSTER GP: Glenn Irwin would jump at chance to ride Ducati at Dundrod

The Carrick rider, who is team-mates with four-time BSB champion Shane ‘Shakey’ Byrne, has no concrete plans to compete on the roads this season, but admits he wouldn’t need a second invitation to line up on the grid at Dundrod if he received the green light from team owner Paul Bird.

“We can’t say too much right now, but hopefully it happens. We might be there racing, but ultimately its Paul’s decision and if he wants the Ducati there, I’ll be there,” said Irwin, who made his roads debut at the Ulster GP in 2014.

“The focus for now is on the British Championships. I’m starting to get a good feeling with the bigger bike and I’m learning every time I throw my leg over the bike.”

The 26-year-old, who sensationally finished on the rostrum in the Supersport races at the world’s fastest road race on the Gearlink Kawasaki last August – sealing a stunning runner-up finish in race two – is also confident the Italian Superbike would be the perfect weapon for the 7.4-mile course.

“I’ve heard a few people say that the Panigale isn’t a road racing bike, but to be honest I’m not so sure,” said Irwin.

“Maybe it’s not a TT bike, but now I’ve ridden it I definitely think the Ducati has a lot of characteristics that would suit fast, flowing road circuits like Dundrod. It has so much torque and it’s like a missile in every gear, so I think it would work well.”

Irwin is being sponsored by the MCE Insurance Ulster Grand Prix again in 2016 and regardless of whether or not he competes at the event this summer, the happy-go-lucky Ulster rider will be an ambassador for the event during Bike Week (August 8-13).

“The Ulster is where I started my road racing career and I’ve always received so much support from everyone involved, so it’s an event that’s really important to me,” he said.

“I’m delighted to be an ambassador once again and as always I’ll be doing my part to promote the world’s fastest road race.”

Clerk of the Course Noel Johnston says Irwin is a fitting role model to promote the historic road race and has every confidence he will make his mark on the British Superbike Championship this season.

“Glenn is one of our brightest young racers and we’re proud to be able to offer him our support once again for 2016,” said Johnston.

“He has stepped up into one of the world’s most competitive championships and it’s a fantastic platform for us to promote the Ulster Grand Prix, so fingers crossed Glenn can get some good results.

“He’s got the team, the bike and the talent to do it.”

General admission wristbands and tickets for the Joey Dunlop Grandstand are available to buy now online via www.ticketmaster.co.uk.