Ulster Grand Prix set for 2027 return to Dundrod – “World’s fastest road race” to make triumphant comeback

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Communities Minister Gordon Lyons, with club representatives at Stormont.

The iconic Ulster Grand Prix is set to roar back onto the international motorsport stage in summer 2027, marking its long-awaited return to the famous Dundrod circuit for the first time since 2019.

The announcement from the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (Ulster Centre) Ltd (MCUI UC) confirms that extensive discussions with government departments, MLAs, councils, and agencies over recent months have paved the way for the event’s revival — widely regarded as the world’s fastest road race.

The MCUI (UC) revealed that the 7.4-mile Dundrod course, within the Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council area, will once again host the race under the guidance of its promotional arm, Ulster Centre Sports Promotions. A team drawn from the organisation’s seventeen affiliated clubs will oversee planning, safety, and logistics.

“After a lot of work by so many, great to announce today that the Ulster Grand Prix is due to return for the first time since 2019 in 2027,” the MCUI (UC) confirmed.

The organisers say the next 12–18 months will focus on event safety planning, funding applications, and community engagement. Meetings with local residents are also planned to discuss the detailed event proposals.

Government and Motorsport Backing

The announcement has been met with enthusiastic support from across Northern Ireland’s political and sporting community.

Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly said:

“I commend the work of the MCUI in their efforts to see the return of the Ulster Grand Prix to our roads.

“This event is more than a race — it’s a celebration of our sporting heritage, our passion for motorsport, and the community spirit that makes road racing in Northern Ireland unique. I would warmly welcome its return and the boost it will bring to our local economy, tourism, and pride.”

Communities Minister Gordon Lyons also praised the efforts of organisers:

“I have been greatly encouraged by the work and commitment of the MCUI, which gives me real optimism that we will once again see the Ulster Grand Prix return to the local road racing calendar, bringing high-speed excitement back to the famously fast Dundrod Circuit.

“Northern Ireland has a rich and internationally recognised heritage of road racing and the possibility of seeing this iconic event return is something that will be welcomed by fans, competitors and communities alike.”

Mr Lyons noted that his department had allocated £187,000 last year and £400,000 this year to improve safety measures for riders and spectators at road races, highlighting the Executive’s continued support for the sport.

“World’s Fastest Road Race” Returns

Described as the “purest and most natural road race event in the world,” the Ulster Grand Prix has a storied history stretching back decades. The event remains synonymous with global motorsport excellence and Northern Ireland’s proud racing tradition.

The Ulster Grand Prix Supporters Club, led by Dessie Stewart, has also welcomed the return:

“On behalf of the Ulster Grand Prix Supporters Club, we congratulate the Motor Cycle Union of Ireland (UC) Ltd and Ulster Centre Sports Promotions for their lead role in a planned return for the Ulster Grand Prix on the Dundrod Circuit in 2027.

“This race – one of Northern Ireland’s greatest sporting events – has been sadly missed from the calendar by all pure road racing enthusiasts… Now the hard work begins in earnest: planning, preparation and re-structuring the event to re-kindle the old glory days of The Ulster, the ‘World’s Fastest Road Race’!”

Organisers estimate that £800,000 in funding will be required to stage the event, and sponsorship and investment opportunities are being actively pursued to ensure long-term sustainability.

The race is expected to draw global attention once again, with record-holders and racing legends likely to return.

Peter Hickman still holds the Dundrod lap record at 136.415 mph, while Joey Dunlop remains the most successful rider in the event’s history with 24 wins. His nephew, Michael Dunlop, who holds the Isle of Man TT record, is expected to be among the leading contenders when the UGP returns.

“A Major Boost for Motorsport and the Local Economy”

South Antrim MP Robin Swann also welcomed the news:

“I’m delighted to welcome the news that the Ulster Grand Prix is set to return to the Dundrod circuit, here in South Antrim. This has the potential to be a major boost for motorsport and the local economy.

“The Grand Prix has long been part of local sporting heritage, and its return will reflect the hard work and determination of everyone involved. It will be fantastic to see this iconic event back on the calendar – showcasing South Antrim and Northern Ireland on the world motorsport stage once again.”

With planning underway, the organisers are optimistic that the revived Ulster Grand Prix will once again become a cornerstone of the Northern Ireland sporting calendar, attracting fans, competitors, and visitors from across the globe.

“Roll on Summer 2027,” the MCUI concluded.