The North West 200 will host a round of a new Superbike road racing series
Organisers for the North West 200 have revealed that the 2026 event will incorporate a round of the freshly established European Series Road Racing (ESR) for Superbikes. In response to safety concerns leading the International Road Racing Championship to discontinue Superbike machinery as its premier category, a new series has emerged to fill the gap. The ESR will encompass six rounds next year, featuring 1000cc machinery competing in various countries including the Netherlands, Czechia, Finland, and Belgium. Moreover, the North West 200 will be included on the calendar, offering championship points during the final Superbike race on Thursday and the main Superbike contest on Saturday. Additionally, a substantial prize pool of €30,000 will be up for grabs at the event. The 2026 North West 200, scheduled from May 4 to May 9, will serve as the inaugural major road race of the season, attracting participants like Belgian rider Frederik Matthys who expresses enthusiasm for the unique atmosphere and competition the event offers.
