Family first for Irwin in quitting road racing

Glenn Irwin has won 11 straight Superbike races at the North West 200

Glenn Irwin says the interests of his family are the "absolute reason" for his decision to retire from road racing.

The 34-year-old Carrickfergus rider is quitting road racing after winning the last 11 Superbike races at the North West 200.

"I've ticked all the boxes, I've got the trophies and I'm out here on the other side," said Irwin.

"I've had my day - I've three beautiful children and the world is an ever changing place. I belive they need their dad in their lives.

"You can never guarantee anything in life. My family are my absolute reason."

Irwin, who will now focus on the British Superbike Championship, was speaking at the North West 200 circuit on Wednesday.

His Superbike winning streak began in 2017 and he has fond memories of competiting at the international road race meeting.

"Those seven years here brought some of the happiest memories of my life - road racing is the best sport in the world.

"But I think there always has to be a time. I've acheived more here than I ever thought I would achieve."

Irwin's absence will be keenly felt at the North West 200 after starring in the last seven meetings.

Event director Mervyn Whyte says his retirement announcement came as a suprise.

"At the outset it was definitely a bit of a shock although I probably had an inkling that something was happening in relation to Glenn.

"Being selfish I would have loved to have him at the North West 200 moving forward - from my point of view, from the organisers' point of view and from the fans' point of view.

"He's made his decision and I've total respect for what he is doing. He was a major attraction and he brings a massive amount to it. One door closes and another opens - someone else will come along."

Whyte added that he is "reasonably positive" that North West 200 record wins holder Alastair Seeley, who missed this year's meeting, will return to the grid for the 2025 event.