BBC Sport NI secures North West 200 broadcast deal through to centenary year 2029

(L-R) Mervyn Whyte, Event Director, North West 200 and BBC Sport NI’s Stephen Watson

BBC Sport NI will continue to bring the North West 200 to audiences worldwide until its historic centenary year after securing a new three-year broadcast extension with the Coleraine and District Motor Club.

The agreement ensures that coverage of the Briggs Equipment North West 200 will remain on BBC platforms from 2027 through to 2029, a milestone year marking 100 years of one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sporting events.

Global coverage secured for landmark anniversary

The renewed deal between BBC Sport NI and the Coleraine and District Motor Club guarantees continued extensive, multi-platform coverage of the internationally renowned road race.

Fans across Northern Ireland, the UK and around the world will be able to watch every practice session and race through live streaming on BBC iPlayer, as well as via the BBC Sport NI website for international audiences.

The event, widely recognised as Northern Ireland’s largest outdoor sporting spectacle, draws tens of thousands of spectators annually to the famous 8.9-mile Triangle circuit along the north coast, while reaching significantly larger global audiences through broadcast coverage.

Full race week coverage across TV, radio and digital

Under the extended agreement, BBC Sport NI will maintain its comprehensive race week output, offering wall-to-wall coverage across television, radio and digital platforms.

Live audio commentary will be available on BBC Radio Foyle and BBC Sounds during Thursday evening and Saturday race sessions, alongside a dedicated race day programme broadcast on BBC Radio Ulster.

For television viewers, three dedicated highlights programmes will air on BBC Northern Ireland, with full catch-up access available on BBC iPlayer.

This level of coverage ensures that both on-site spectators and those unable to attend can follow the event in real time and on demand, significantly expanding accessibility.

BBC: ‘A global event synonymous with Northern Ireland’

Adam Smyth, Director of BBC Northern Ireland, said the extended partnership reflects both the scale and significance of the event.

“The NW200 is a renowned global event synonymous with Northern Ireland and it’s fantastic that we’re extending our partnership right up until its centenary in 2029.

“We’ve had a long relationship with Mervyn Whyte and the Coleraine and District Motor Club and we’re looking forward to bringing race fans, across the UK and around the globe, the thrills and passion of the NW200 races as well as providing audiences around the world with a glimpse of the spectacular north west coastline.”

His comments underline the dual role of the broadcast — not only showcasing elite motorsport but also promoting Northern Ireland’s landscape and tourism offering to international viewers.

Organisers highlight impact on international reach

Mervyn Whyte, Event Director of the North West 200, emphasised the importance of BBC coverage in elevating the race’s global profile.

“The BBC Sport NI coverage of the Briggs Equipment North West 200 has been instrumental in helping us to elevate the international reach and status of the event. That coverage has also allowed us to convey the excitement and spectacle of both the racing and Northern Ireland’s beautiful north coast to a global audience.

“As we plan for the celebration of the North West 200’s centenary in 2029, we are delighted to be continuing our longstanding relationship with BBC NI.”

The extension comes as organisers begin planning for the centenary celebrations, which are expected to further boost visitor numbers and international attention.

Riders underline value of worldwide exposure

Glenn Irwin highlighted how crucial the BBC’s coverage has been for riders and the sport itself.

“The BBC coverage is incredible for the North West. Obviously it’s so widely accessible. It puts the North West onto a global platform. I’ve benefited from it as well when I didn’t come one year. I was in England and I watched you talking us all through it. I love participating in the interviews, the vibe. I love how people can watch it in the live streaming all the time.

“We’re already on the map with the North West 200, but it puts it in front of people’s faces for loads that can’t make it over. It’s that type of event. It should be able to be watched on demand because it’s one of the best events in the world.”

His remarks reflect the growing importance of digital accessibility, with live streaming and on-demand viewing now central to how global audiences engage with major sporting events.

Economic and tourism significance for Northern Ireland

The continuation of BBC coverage is expected to reinforce the North West 200’s role as a major driver of tourism and economic activity across the north coast.

Each year, the event attracts visitors from across the UK, Ireland and further afield, supporting local businesses, accommodation providers and hospitality venues in towns including Portrush, Portstewart and Coleraine.

With the centenary now firmly in sight, the extended broadcast deal ensures that the North West 200 will not only retain its place on the international motorsport calendar but expand its global reach at a pivotal moment in its history.

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At a glance

• BBC Sport NI will broadcast the North West 200 until 2029

• New deal covers 2027–2029, including the event’s centenary year

• Agreement is with Coleraine and District Motor Club

• Full live streaming of all races and practice sessions will continue

• Coverage available on BBC iPlayer and BBC Sport NI website worldwide

• Live radio commentary on BBC Radio Foyle, BBC Sounds and BBC Radio Ulster

• Three TV highlights programmes to air on BBC Northern Ireland

• Event attracts tens of thousands of spectators annually

• 8.9-mile Triangle circuit remains central to the race

• Centenary expected to significantly boost global attention and tourism