North West 200 adds third Superbike race for 2020

The 2020 North West 200 road race will feature three Superbike races, including a new one to be held on the Thursday for the first time.

Reacting to requests from race teams and competitors, NW200 organisers have introduced a Thursday evening Superbike race – dubbed a ‘sprint race’ - in addition to Saturday’s two outings.

Practice will take place as normal on Thursday morning with four sessions taking place, with the Superbike race effectively taking the position of the Supertwins race in the schedule, which in turn will now be held in the afternoon.

Tuesday and Saturday’s race programme remains unchanged with five practice session on the former and five races – two Superbike, Supersport, Superstock and Supertwins - on the Saturday.

“We have listened very carefully to the teams and riders who have lobbied for a Superbike race on Thursday.’ NW200 Event Director, Mervyn Whyte, said.

“This new schedule will allow the superbikes to compete in a sprint type race ahead of Saturday’s two longer events, providing more track time and a greater spectacle for everyone involved. From the spectator’s point of view it will be exciting to see every class and all of the top riders in action on Thursday.”

Glenn Irwin won the sole Superbike race – after weather forced the second to be cancelled – for Quattro Plant Kawasaki. The Ulsterman will ride the new Honda UK-backed CBR1000RR-R Fireblade Superbike in 2020.