The Ulster Unionist Party is calling for an urgent intervention to save motorcycle road racing in Northern Ireland. Following the devastating news that all races have been cancelled because of rising insurance costs.

Mike Nesbitt MLA, who chairs the All-Party Group on Sport & Recreation, has highlighted this is an issue the Stormont Executive could and should address.

Mike Nesbitt said:

“If you think of the level of support the Executive has previously offered to secure the likes of the Giro cycling race or the Open golf, there is a clear argument for financial support for road racing.

“I understand last year’s North West 200 pumped £17.4 million into the local economy.  110,000 visited the races on the Saturday alone, nearly a quarter of visitors were from out of state, creating nearly 65,000 bed nights. This is another compelling reason to get Stormont back up and running.”