Ballymoney’s own road racing phenomenon, Michael Dunlop, has once again cemented his legendary status in the world of two-wheeled motorsport, clinching the prestigious Irish Motorcyclist of the Year award for the third time. The 36-year-old ace was honoured at the annual gala awards evening, taking home the coveted Joey Dunlop Trophy following a year defined by record-breaking performances on both the Irish national circuits and the unforgiving Snaefell Mountain Course.
A Season of Triumphs and Milestones
Dunlop’s latest accolade follows a season where he defied expectations and added significant milestones to his already unparalleled career. His tally of victories at the iconic Isle of Man TT (IOM TT) now stands at an astounding 33, extending his own record. This haul included four crucial wins in the 2025 season—two in the highly competitive Supersport class and two in the Supertwins category.
However, perhaps the most emotionally significant achievement came closer to home. Dunlop ended a frustrating nine-year winless drought at the North West 200 (NW200). His triumphant return to the top step of the podium on the famous 8.97-mile Triangle circuit was nothing short of spectacular. He masterfully secured a hat-trick of victories across the NW200 events, showcasing his enduring pace and commitment.
NW200 Dominance and National Success
The NW200 success was built over the race weekend. Dunlop clinched wins in the Supersport and Superstock races during the Thursday night session, demonstrating his versatility across different machinery. He capped off the event with a decisive victory in the second Superbike race on Saturday. Beyond the high-profile international events, Dunlop also secured double victories at both the Cookstown 100 and the Tandragee 100, reinforcing his dominance in the Irish national road racing scene.
Recognition Across the Board at the Awards Gala
The awards ceremony served as a comprehensive celebration of Northern Ireland’s motorsport talent across various disciplines. Michael Dunlop’s dramatic Superbike win at the North West 200 was unanimously voted the **Race of the Year**, highlighting its significance and excitement.
The evening also paid tribute to other towering figures in the sport. Jonathan Rea, who recently concluded his illustrious World Superbike career after securing six consecutive titles between 2015 and 2020, was presented with a well-deserved Special Recognition Award, honouring a career that redefined excellence in WSBK.
Rising Stars and Trailblazers Honoured
The future of Irish motorsport looks bright, as evidenced by the accolades given to younger competitors. Donegal’s Rhys Irwin was named **Short Circuit Rider of the Year** on UK circuits, following his impressive British Supersport championship victory. On the domestic front, Ulster Superbike champion and Sunflower Trophy winner Carl Phillips earned the Short Circuit Rider of the Year award for Irish circuits.
Casey O’Gorman was recognised as the **Young Rider of the Year** after successfully making his debut in the fiercely competitive Moto3 GP series at the world level. Meanwhile, Emma McQuaid received the **Female Trailblazer prize**. McQuaid made history last year by becoming the first female athlete to represent Ireland in a mixed-gender Nations team, not just in Quad Cross of Nations, but across any Nations event where men and women compete together—a truly landmark moment for motorsport.
Teamwork and Legacy
The **Event of the Year** recognition went to the Joey 25 event, held in Ballymoney to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the passing of racing legend Joey Dunlop, Michael’s uncle.
Davey Todd was celebrated as the **King of the Roads** following a phenomenal season that included a treble at the NW200, securing his maiden Superbike win at the TT, winning the Southern 100 Solo Championship, and clinching victory at the Macau Grand Prix.
In team news, Cork-based outfit Team 109 received the **Team of the Year** award. They made history by becoming the first Irish team to secure a world championship title in short circuits, winning the World Supersport 300 series with their rider, 17-year-old Benat Fernandez.
Legacy continued to be honoured, with former British 250cc champion Adrian Coates inducted into the **Hall of Fame**. Paul Cranston received a **Services to Motorcycling** award for his extensive involvement in competing across both roads and short circuits. Finally, David Allingham earned the **BSB Breakthrough Award** after a stellar campaign in the British Superstock series, finishing runner-up overall and taking a double win at Brands Hatch.
Michael Dunlop’s third tally of the top honour underscores his continued relevance and dominance in a sport that demands absolute precision and bravery. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will remain firmly fixed on the Ballymoney rider as he chases further records on the asphalt.
