Funding package announced to improve safety at road races and motorsport events in Northern Ireland
Funding of £187,000 has been confirmed to help improve safety at motorsport and road racing events in Northern Ireland.
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons made the announcement on Tuesday at Stormont, where Directors from the 2&4 Wheels Motorsport Steering Group and national governing bodies were in attendance.
Minister Lyons said: “Motorsports have always been part of Northern Ireland’s world class sporting legacy, attracting riders and spectators from across the globe to events such as the North West 200 and other road racing circuits every year.
“This funding will go towards the purchase of safety bales which can be shared across the sector at road races and other events into the future, helping to make these races as safe as possible.
“The sector will also benefit from investment in other safety equipment, improving safety at race events and for those participating in track days.”
The equipment will be used at events including road races, car rallies, hill climbs and karting meetings.
Minister Lyons added: “We have some of the best motorsport talent in the world here in Northern Ireland and local races and circuits are important to develop their careers.
“While the danger remains present, as it always will at high speeds, this funding, distributed through Sport NI, will boost rider and driver safety as well as the safety of teams, officials and visitors.”