Seeley Returns to NW200 with New Team and Machine

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 11:06 GMT by The Irish News
      Locales: UNITED KINGDOM, IRELAND

Alastair Seeley: A Legend Returns to the North West 200 with New Machinery and Unwavering Drive

Dungannon's Alastair Seeley, the undisputed 'King of the North West 200', is gearing up for the 2026 edition of the iconic road race with a fresh challenge - a new team and a new machine. However, despite the changes, the core element driving the 44-year-old remains firmly intact: a relentless pursuit of victory. With a record-breaking 24 North West 200 wins under his belt, Seeley continues to defy expectations and demonstrate the enduring passion that has defined his illustrious career.

Seeley's name is synonymous with success at the North West 200. His 24 victories place him significantly ahead of any other competitor, a testament to his skill, consistency, and fearless approach to road racing. For context, the next closest competitor is a considerable distance behind, highlighting the sheer dominance Seeley has exerted over the event for more than two decades. The race, famed for its high-speed, challenging course and passionate fanbase, perfectly suits Seeley's aggressive and controlled riding style.

This year, however, marks a new chapter for the Northern Irish rider. Having switched teams, Seeley is adapting to new machinery and a different team dynamic. When asked about potentially achieving his 34th win - a number symbolically linked to his race number - Seeley downplayed the milestone. "I had thought it would be good to equal my race number, 34, but it's just a number, isn't it?" he stated. This pragmatic response underscores his focus on the bigger picture: delivering results on the track. It's a clear indication that for Seeley, the pursuit of accolades is secondary to the thrill of competition and the desire to win.

Beyond the statistics, Seeley's longevity in a notoriously dangerous sport is remarkable. Road racing demands immense courage, physical fitness, and mental fortitude. Maintaining peak performance at the age of 44 requires dedication and a deep understanding of both the machine and the circuit. Seeley's ability to consistently perform at the highest level is a testament to his professionalism and unwavering commitment to training.

He acknowledges the changing landscape of his career, noting the need to adapt to a new team environment. "I've got a new team this year and that's a bit different, but you just get on with it. You've got to trust the people around you," he explained. Building trust and establishing a strong rapport with his mechanics and engineers will be crucial to success. Effective communication and a shared understanding of the bike's capabilities are paramount in the fast-paced world of road racing.

Seeley's philosophy extends beyond the technical aspects of racing. He emphasizes the importance of living in the moment and focusing on the task at hand. "It's not about what people think, it's about what you do out there," he asserts. "You can't dwell on the past. You've got to look forward to the next race, the next corner. It's all about the here and now." This mindset allows him to block out external pressures and maintain unwavering concentration during races.

The North West 200 isn't just a race for Seeley; it's a homecoming. The event is held on familiar roads, in front of a passionate local crowd, adding an extra layer of significance to his participation. "The North West 200 is always a special race, and I'm looking forward to getting back out there and giving it my best," he confirms. The atmosphere is electric, the competition fierce, and the stakes are high. For Seeley, it's a chance to add another chapter to his already legendary story.

While the pursuit of a record-extending 25th victory will undoubtedly be a primary goal, Seeley's continued enjoyment of the sport remains the driving force behind his participation. "I still enjoy it, and that's the most important thing," he stated. This passion, combined with his unparalleled skill and experience, ensures that Alastair Seeley will remain a formidable force at the North West 200 for years to come.