North West 200 to continue after rider dies during qualifying session
Organisers revise Thursday’s schedule as tributes pour in for the unnamed competitor
A competitor at the North West 200 motorcycle race has died after an on-course incident during a qualifying session on Thursday.
Organisers of the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 said the session was immediately red flagged and emergency services attended.
They added that the rider “succumbed to his injuries” after the crash on Station corner during a Superbike qualifying session.
Organisers said the family have given their approval for the event to continue but have requested that the rider not be named.
In a statement, Coleraine and District Motor Club, the organisers of the races, offered “sincere condolences to the family and team”.
After the incident during Thursday’s qualifying session, a revised schedule was issued with roads closing at 4.45pm ahead of four qualifying sessions from 5.45pm – replacing the scheduled races.
Ulster Unionist Party leader Jon Burrows said he was “deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss”.
He said: “The North West 200 is one of our most cherished and celebrated sporting events, drawing competitors and fans from across the world to the Causeway Coast.
“Today, however, that excitement has given way to profound grief.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the tragic loss of a competitor following this morning’s Superbike qualifying session.
“My sincere condolences are with the rider’s family, friends, team, fellow competitors, and all involved in the North West 200 community at this incredibly difficult time.”