Police issue traffic guidance ahead of Joey Dunlop 25 celebration in Ballymoney

Police have issued guidance for motorists with significant traffic disruption in Ballymoney on Saturday 24th May as the town prepares to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the death of legendary road racer Joey Dunlop.

In honour of the late five-time World Champion, the “Joey 25” memorial event is set to transform the town centre into a celebration of Northern Ireland’s most iconic motorcycling hero.

From 5pm to 9pm on the day, Main Street, High Street, North Road, Model School Road, Townhead Street and Seymour Street will be closed to all traffic. Police have confirmed a traffic management operation will be in place, with clearly marked diversion routes to assist motorists.

Event organisers are encouraging visitors to use designated parking areas and take advantage of a park and ride facility operating from the Joey Dunlop Centre.

A Fitting Tribute to a Motorsport Legend

The free public event, organised by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, will welcome thousands of fans and over 25 of the sport’s greatest names, past and present, in a one-of-a-kind tribute to Dunlop’s enduring legacy.

Central to the event will be the largest-ever collection of Joey Dunlop’s race bikes, followed by an emotional parade as these legendary machines roar through the streets of Ballymoney, piloted by some of the biggest names in motorcycling.

A Star-Studded Line-Up

Among the high-profile participants are World Superbike Champions Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea, Grand Prix veterans Ron Haslam, Jeremy McWilliams, and Eugene Laverty, as well as British champions Leon Haslam and Adrian Coates.

The lineup also includes North West 200 record holder Alastair Seeley, BSB star Glenn Irwin, and 11-time Irish champion Michael Swann.

They will be joined by Double World Formula 2 Champion Brian Reid and a host of Joey’s friends, rivals, and former teammates, including Alan Irwin, Trevor Steele, Con Law, Raymond McCullough, and Leslie McMaster.

Leading the parade will be Ryan Farquhar, alongside celebrated road racers including Michael Rutter, Bruce Anstey, Phillip McCallen, Adrian Archibald, and Ian Simpson, as well as Paul Robinson, James Courtney, Denis McCullough, Steve Cull, and Michael McGarrity.

The Dunlop family is expected to be represented by Joey’s daughter Donna McLean and Michael McCammond, husband of Joey’s youngest daughter, Joanne.

Remembering Joey Dunlop

Joey Dunlop tragically died in a racing accident in Estonia in 2000 at the age of 48. His legacy as one of road racing’s most revered figures continues to inspire generations.

“We couldn’t imagine a better way to remember Joey than with an event in his hometown,” said Joey’s wife, Linda.

“This milestone anniversary is a poignant time for our family, and we’re deeply grateful to the local council for organising this event. Seeing so many of Joey’s original bikes displayed and ridden through the town is truly special.”

Community Celebration and Global Recognition

The event comes just two weeks after the North West 200 and promises to be a major highlight in the Borough’s calendar. With fans expected from across the globe, Ballymoney is preparing to welcome visitors with a mix of motorcycling heritage, community pride, and entertainment.

“We’re excited to welcome fans from all around the world to this extraordinary Joey 25 celebration,” said Councillor Ciaran McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.

“Joey was a local legend and a global ambassador—not just for Ballymoney, but for our entire region and beyond. It’s only fitting that we celebrate his enduring legacy in style.”

Additional Festivities

In addition to the parade and motorcycle showcase, attendees can enjoy “meet the riders” sessions, autograph signings, live music, and family-friendly entertainment.

A Joey Dunlop memorabilia exhibition is currently open at Ballymoney Museum, and a further tribute is scheduled for the Classic Bike Festival Ireland in August.