Paul Jordan confirmed for Bear Competitions Cookstown 100 return on new Ducati as first Irish road race of 2026 launched
Paul Jordan is set to return to the Bear Competitions Cookstown 100 this month after a few years away from the event.
The Magherafelt man will ride his new Jackson Racing by Prosper2 Ducati V2 Supersport machine and 1000cc Honda Fireblade at the opening Irish road race of the season, which takes place from April 24-25.
“The aim is to build on a strong 2025 season and I’m hoping we can move up the ladder that bit more,” Jordan said.
“The switch to the Ducati is something that I believe will stand us in good stead and I’ve already had a couple of outings on the bike, so continuing with the same team, same crew and same bikes gives us a solid foundation in terms of preparation and confidence.”
Ballymoney’s Darryl Tweed, the 2025 man of the meeting, will be another leading contender at the Orritor course in Co Tyrone.
Tweed impressed on Stanley Stewart’s Triumph 765 at the Easter Monday Ulster Superbike meeting at Kirkistown and will also make his roads debut on the JLR Ability Energy Ltd Honda Fireblade.
The event was launched yesterday evening, with 38 newcomers confirmed and full grids across most classes.
Multiple Irish road racing champion Michael Sweeney will open his 2026 road racing assault at Cookstown and is one of the main protagonists, while Senior Manx Grand Prix winner Caomhan Canny will be in action for the first time on Trevor Scott’s Aprilia machines.
Among the newcomers this year is Manx rider Illiam Quayle, son of former TT winner Richard ‘Milky’ Quayle.
The Isle of Man rider will be in action on his own 600 Suzuki and is joined at the event by fellow Manxman Marcus Simpson.