Glenn Irwin 'fully expects' to be challenging for British Superbike title in 2026 after penning deal with Nitrous Competitions Racing

The Carrickfergus man joined the team to ride the Yamaha R1 in August after parting company from the Hager PBM Ducati squad.

Irwin, a two-time BSB title runner-up, said his goal remains unchanged for next year as he bids to become Northern Ireland’s first BSB champion.

“I am over the moon to be staying with Nitrous Competitions Racing next season,” said Irwin. “After such a great start to the 2024 season and feeling like if I had made another step with my riding, the championship was going great until the injury, and now I am beginning to feel back to myself physically.

“I have a great pre-season plan already, even though we still have races this season still to go, which will help me develop as a rider.

“To sign with Nitrous Competitions Racing, the current British champions, and currently leading this year’s championship – with the success that they have had – is great. I get on great with Kyle and so for us to be going into next season to fight for the title, along with my long-time crew chief Ryan [Rainey] and electronics engineer Chris, along with the whole team is a great blend.”

Irwin said he is satisfied to continue adapting to the Yamaha and finding his top form again as the championship enters the three-round Showdown phase this weekend at Assen, but his target for 2026 is clear.

“Right now we are happy and working away, but next season I fully expect to be challenging Kyle for the title,” added the Ulsterman. “And I want to thank David, Matty, Paul and everyone involved with the Nitrous Competitions Racing team for this opportunity.

“I want to thank my personal sponsors and all the fans for their continued support and I can assure you we will come back swinging next season in typical Glenn Irwin fashion - digging deep and back fighting for top results.”