Glenn Irwin Announces Road Racing Retirement, Citing Family as “Absolute Reason”

Glenn Irwin has stated that his family’s welfare is the “absolute reason” behind his choice to step away from road racing, a sport in which he has secured 11 consecutive Superbike victories at the North West 200. The 34-year-old rider from Carrickfergus is discontinuing his road racing career, having achieved wins in the last 11 Superbike races at the North West 200. Irwin articulated his decision, stating, “I’ve ticked all the boxes, I’ve got the trophies and I’m out here on the other side.” He further elaborated, “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.” He concluded by emphasizing, “You can never guarantee anything in life. My family are my absolute reason.” Irwin made these remarks on Wednesday at the North West 200 circuit, confirming his intention to now concentrate on the British Superbike Championship. His series of Superbike victories commenced in 2017, and he holds cherished recollections of his participation in the international road race event. He reflected on his time, saying, “Those seven years here brought some of the happiest memories of my life – road racing is the best sport in the world.” He added, “But I think there always has to be a time. I’ve acheived more here than I ever thought I would achieve.” Irwin’s departure is expected to be significantly noticed at the North West 200, given his prominent performances in the past seven events. Mervyn Whyte, the event director, expressed surprise at the retirement announcement. He stated, “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.” Whyte continued, “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 concluded by saying, “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 also indicated that he is “reasonably positive” regarding the return of Alastair Seeley, the North West 200 record wins holder who did not participate in this year’s meeting, to the starting grid for the 2025 event.