Glenn Irwin believes he can return to the front of the British Superbike Championship, with an exciting move to Michael Laverty’s BMW-backed team providing fresh motivation for 2027.
The 12-time North West 200 Superbike race winner will ride an Alpha Racing-prepared BMW M 1000 RR for the GRYD Racing team, co-owned by Laverty and David Eltherington.
The 36-year-old Northern Ireland rider admits 2026 failed to live up to expectations as injuries, crashes, technical issues and a difficult relationship with Ducati’s new Panigale V4R, combined to derail his title ambitions.
Despite showing flashes of his speed with a podium at Knockhill and success at the North West 200, Irwin was left searching for answers throughout a frustrating campaign and ended 14th in the series standings.
The Carrickfergus rider has twice finished runner-up in BSB, including being pipped by half-a-point by then teammate Tommy Bridewell in 2023.
“It’s been hard,” he reflected of his 2026 season on the BBC Bikes podcast.
“There were moments when doubts came in, because that’s natural as a sports person, but there were also moments this year when you realise you shouldn’t have those doubts.”
Those doubts also extended to his future.
After a disappointing season by his own high standards, Irwin admitted he was concerned about whether the right opportunity would emerge for 2027.
However, the chance to join Michael Laverty’s team alongside Englishman Storm Stacey quickly convinced him it was the fresh start he needed.
“Storm’s a great team-mate,” added Irwin.
“I’m looking forward to taking from him and also passing on to him.”