Superbike star dies after crash at North West 200 qualifying session

A rider has died following a crash during qualifying for the North West 200 in Northern Ireland. Racing was suspended on Thursday following the incident and organisers later announced that the unnamed rider had passed away. A spokesperson said: “A competitor at the 2026 Briggs Equipment North West 200 has died following an incident at Station corner on the NW200 course during this morning’s Superbike qualifying session. “The session was immediately red flagged and emergency services attended the scene but unfortunately the rider succumbed to his injuries. “The family have given their approval for the event to continue but have requested that the rider not be named at this time. “Coleraine and District Motor Club, the organisers of the races, offer our sincere condolences to the family and team.” Road Racing Ireland said it "extends its sincere condolences to the rider's family, friends, team, and everyone affected by today's events." The North West 200 takes place on 8.97 miles of closed public roads around the 'Triangle' circuit between Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine. It is Northern Ireland's largest outdoor sporting event, attracting around 100,000 spectators. The fatality is the first at the event since Malachi Mitchell-Thomas was killed in a Supertwins race in 2016. Organisers also announced a revised schedule for Thursday evening. Roads are now open and will close as planned at 4.45pm with four qualifying sessions now replacing the scheduled races from 5.45pm onwards.