Racing legend Joey Dunlop will be honoured with a special star-studded event in his hometown – and it’s free to attend!
Joey 25 will take place in the 26-time Isle of Man TT winner and five-time World Champion’s hometown of Ballymoney on Saturday, May 24 to mark 25 years since his tragic death.
The event, which will be free to attend, is being hosted by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and will include live music, autograph signings, and a parade of Joey’s race bikes.
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Carl Fogarty and Jonathan Rea have already been confirmed as part of the parade line-up, as well as Jeremy McWilliams, Eugene Laverty, Adrian Coates, Alastair Seeley, and Glenn Irwin.
Also taking part are Alan Irwin, Trevor Steele, Con Law, Raymond McCullough, Leslie McMaster, Ryan Farquhar, Michael Rutter, Adrian Archibald, Ian Simpson, Paul Robinson, James Courtney, Denis McCullough, Steve Cull, and Michael McGarrity.
“We’re excited to welcome fans from all around the world to this extraordinary Joey 25 celebration,” said Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council mayor Councillor Ciarán McQuillan.
“Joey was a local legend and a global ambassador—not just for Ballymoney, but for our entire region and beyond. It’s only fitting that we celebrate his enduring legacy in style.”
Members of the Dunlop family will also take part in the parade.
“We couldn’t imagine a better way to remember Joey than with an event in his hometown,” said Joey’s wife, Linda.
“This milestone anniversary is a poignant time for our family, and we’re deeply grateful to the local council for organising this event. Seeing so many of Joey’s original bikes displayed and ridden through the town is truly special.”
As part of the festivities, a memorabilia exhibition will run from April at Ballymoney’s museum, with further tributes planned at the North West 200 and a parade of race bikes at the Classic Bike Festival Ireland in August.
Joey Dunlop previously held the record for most wins at the Isle of Man TT, until he was overtaken by his nephew Michael Dunlop last year.
Joey died in a racing accident in Estonia in 2000, age 48.
