BBC Sport NI in new three-year deal to broadcast North West 200 until centenary year in 2029

The extended partnership with the Coleraine and District Motor Club will incorporate the centenary year of Northern Ireland’s premier motorcycle race in 2029.

“The NW200 is a renowned global event synonymous with Northern Ireland and it’s fantastic that we’re extending our partnership right up until its centenary in 2029,” said Adam Smyth, Director of BBC NI. “We’ve had a long relationship with Mervyn Whyte and the Coleraine and District Motor Club and we’re looking forward to bringing race fans, across the UK and around the globe, the thrills and passion of the NW200 races as well as providing audiences around the world with a glimpse of the spectacular north west coastline.”

NW200 Event Director Mervyn Whyte said BBC NI’s coverage had been “instrumental” in enhancing the international reach of the event.

“The BBC Sport NI coverage of the Briggs Equipment North West 200 has been instrumental in helping us to elevate the international reach and status of the event,” said Whyte.

“That coverage has also allowed us to convey the excitement and spectacle of both the racing and Northern Ireland's beautiful north coast to a global audience. As we plan for the celebration of the North West 200's centenary in 2029, we are delighted to be continuing our longstanding relationship with BBC NI.”

Glenn Irwin, the NW200 Superbike race wins record holder with 11 successive wins between 2017 and 2024, said the extended deal was “incredible” news. “The BBC coverage is incredible for the North West,” said the Carrick man. “Obviously it's so widely accessible. It puts the North West onto a global platform.

"I love participating in the interviews, the vibe. I love how people can watch it in the live-streaming all the time. We're already on the map with the North West 200, but it puts it in front of people's faces for loads that can't make it over. It's that type of event.

"It should be able to be watched on demand because it's one of the best events in the world.”

NW200 Race week this year runs from May 4-9.