'Significant boost' for Irish road racing in 2026 with three events confirmed in Republic of Ireland after four years
Three Irish road races are confirmed to be going ahead in 2026 as the sport returns to the Republic of Ireland for the first time in four years.
Kells became the latest club to announce their intention to run their event in Co Meath this year following a committee meeting on Wednesday night, with the organisers yet to announce their date.
However, the famous Skerries 100 in Co Dublin will take place from July 4-5, with the Athea road races in Co Limerick running from September 12-13.
Crippling insurance costs have prevented any road races being held in the Republic since 2022, while last year the sport suffered across all disciplines, with no short circuit, motocross or trials meetings taking place.
However, things are looking up once more, with five short circuit rounds scheduled to run at Mondello Park in Co Kildare with the return of the Masters Superbike Championship, which was last staged in 2024.
Motocross, trials and enduro meetings will also return after governing body Motorcycling Ireland secured an insurance policy covering a specified number of events across all disciplines for 2026.
Following the latest announcement by the Kells club, Motorcycling Ireland said the news had come as a “significant boost” for Irish road racing.
“Irish road racing has received a significant boost with confirmation of three major events, underlining the continued commitment and momentum within the sport,” the statement read. “The first announcement came with the confirmation of the South West Road Racing Athea, followed shortly afterwards by the Loughshinny Motorcycle Supporters Club, who confirmed their intention to once again promote the Skerries Road Race. Most recently, it has been officially confirmed that Kells Road Races will return to the calendar in 2026. “These confirmations represent a very positive step forward for the road racing fraternity. They reflect the dedication and hard work of clubs, volunteers, members, and supporters who continue to invest their time and energy into keeping the sport alive and thriving.
“With these events now confirmed, road racing fans and competitors alike can look forward to a strong and vibrant programme of racing across the summer months, reinforcing the enduring appeal and resilience of road racing in Ireland.”
In Northern Ireland, the Cookstown 100 kicks off the Irish road racing season in April followed by May’s North West 200, the Tandragee 100 in June, Armoy in July and the returning Mid Antrim 150 from July 31-August 1. A government-backed effort in conjunction with the MCUI (Ulster Centre) is also underway in a fresh attempt to revive the Ulster Grand Prix at Dundrod in 2027.