Michael Dunlop Set to Make Sensational Return to Tandragee 100
Get ready, road racing fans—Tandragee is about to get a dose of pure Dunlop dynamite.
Just weeks after etching his name deeper into Isle of Man TT folklore with four victories and taking his total tally to an unmatched 33, Michael Dunlop has confirmed a shock entry for the 2025 Tandragee 100, marking his first appearance at the event in 12 years. That’s right—Northern Ireland’s favourite racing son is back where it all began.
The legendary 36-year-old will be piloting his trusted MD Racing BMW Superstock and the Supersport V2 Ducati over the 5.3-mile County Armagh course—an old-school beast of a track that hasn’t seen action since 2022. His last appearance at Tandragee in 2013 delivered a commanding Superbike double, and Dunlop still holds the Supersport lap record. With 11 previous wins under his belt at this event, he’s not just showing up for the parade.
A Royal Honour & A Homecoming
Dunlop’s return comes hot on the heels of being awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours, recognising his phenomenal contribution to motorcycle racing. It’s a well-earned accolade that adds a regal shine to what has already been a glittering career—and it’s clear he’s not finished yet.
The organisers of the 61st running of the Tandragee 100 couldn’t be more thrilled. “We’re absolutely over the moon to have Michael back,” said the North Armagh Motorcycle Club. “The Tandragee 100 remains one of the last true ‘old school’ road races, and having a TT icon like Michael headline the grid is a huge lift for the sport.”
A Star-Studded Lineup
Dunlop won’t be the only name to watch. Fans can also expect fierce competition from a strong field of riders:
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Michael Sweeney, the ever-determined Skerries racer, will campaign an MJR Racing BMW, Yamaha R6, and Aprilia 660.
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Conor Cummins makes a long-awaited return, bridging an 18-year gap as he lines up with Burrows Engineering/RK Racing.
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Shaun Anderson, Joe Yeardsley, Marcus Simpson, Neil Kernohan, and Darryl Tweed are all set to bring the heat.
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Newcomer Amalric Blanc from France adds international flavour, while the evergreen Ian Lougher takes on the Supertwins class.
Sadly, Derek McGee will miss out due to injury, a blow for fans of the Mullingar Missile.
Roads, Schedule & That Dunlop Magic
Thanks to essential resurfacing work, the Tandragee course is now greenlit and ready to roar. Racing will run on Friday 27 June (practice from 11:30 BST) and Saturday 28 June (racing starts at 10:00 BST). Expect road closures during those times, and get there early—because with Dunlop on the grid, the turnout is going to be massive.
A Boost for the Sport
Let’s not sugar-coat it—Irish road racing has faced some tough times lately, from rising costs to insurance struggles. Attracting big names has been increasingly difficult. That’s why Dunlop’s late entry isn’t just exciting—it’s essential. His presence injects pure adrenaline into the event and gives organisers the kind of buzz money can’t buy.
It’s a reminder of what makes this sport so magical: raw talent, unpredictable appearances, and legendary names tackling courses that demand absolute commitment.
So, to anyone on the fence about making the trip to Tandragee this weekend—get off it. Michael Dunlop is back, and when he rolls into the paddock, fireworks follow.