By First and foremost, wishing everyone involved in the pure road racing fraternity, a Happy New Year.
Looking towards the 2024 roads season, I am tipping Michael Dunlop to become officially the most successful TT racer in history.
‘Maverick’ needs just two more victories to surpass his legendary Uncle Joey’s TT wins record, which has stood since 1993.
I also anticipate more TT success for FHO Racing BMW’s Peter Hickman and a productive TT for the three strong Honda Racing squad, comprising of Dean Harrison, John McGuinness MBE, and Nathan Harrison.
Added predictions internationals wise include Pete Founds/Jevan Walmsley, the Crowe brothers Ryan & Callum, Michael Browne joining the TT winner’s circle.
Glenn Irwin retaining the feature Northwest 200 Superbike race, Davey Todd scooping Macau Grand Prix honours.
Irish nationals wise, I truly hope the insurance issues improve, I’m always a glass half full towards this topic.
In terms of Oliver’s Mount, Scarborough, Gary McCoy not the former Moto GP, World Superbike racer, is a firm contender for outright Championship spoils.
IRRC wise, top contenders for Superbike, Supersport Championship honours are likely to include reigning Champs Lukas Maurer and Marek Cerveny, Ilja Caljouw, Jorn Hamberg, Didier Grams.
Keep an eye as well on rising talents Markus Karlsson, Johannes Schwimmbeck and notable series debutant, Adam McLean.
I must end this article by wishing a special thank you to all the great photographers who have taken pics for Road Racing News throughout 2023, Steve Rial, Rod Neill, Mark Corlett, Nick Wheeler, Derek Wilson, Michael Wincott, Thijs Van Der Horst, Madli Hanson and Tommy Vennard.
Additionally, I must also thank the marshals, organisers, volunteers, selected fellow press, event sponsors and the fans, aficionados, who keep the truly magnificent, incredible, unparalleled sport of pure road racing, going.
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou
