North West 200 expands race schedule for 2020

North West 200 organisers have added an extra Superbike race as part of its revamped 2020 programme.

This year’s fonaCAB & Nicholl Oils North West 200 has been altered following discussions with race teams and competitors, which sees a new four-lap Superbike race added to Thursday’s schedule for the first time.

“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.”

The remainder of the NW200 schedule remains unchanged with the action starting on Tuesday (May 12) for five practice sessions across the different classes with roads closed between 09:15 to 15:15.

Thursday’s (May 14) altered programme sees four practice sessions take place with the roads closed between 09:15 and 15:15.

After the roads are reopened to give access to local residents, the roads will close again at 17:00 until 21:00 for the new Superbike race plus the opening Superstock and Supersport races. All races on Thursday will be run over four laps.

Finally, Saturday’s main event (May 16) sees an unchanged order with five races for Supersport, Superbike, Supertwin, Superstock and the Superbike finale.

A contingency plan will also be in place if required due to schedule delays or poor weather, which includes the possible use of Saturday’s extension to the road closing order.